With the rising energy costs and colder temperatures many people may be finding it increasingly difficult to heat their home. Keeping warm over the winter months can help prevent colds, flu or more serious health conditions.
East Staffordshire Borough Council is pleased to be providing fuel poverty advice through the ‘Beat the Cold’ project.
‘Beat the Cold’ is an independent charity working to reduce the incidence of cold related illness and fuel poverty. They support households that are struggling to afford to keep their home warm, or whose health would be affected by living in a cold home, and provide access to heating and insulation measures to vulnerable and low income households. They can provide advice on:
- Paying for fuel
- Finding the best available tariffs
- Switching supplier
- Improving energy efficiency in the home
- Fuel Debt
- Associated topics such as free or low-cost insulation and alternatives like solar solutions and heat pumps
- Advice and support to access funding available for Heating Repairs, and replacements
- Register households as priority customers with their energy provider
- Access to grants
Our top tips for keeping warm:
- Keep your home warm – Your main living room should be between 18-21C and the rest of the house at a minimum of 16C.
- Reduce drafts and insulate- use draught excluders on doors
- Dress to keep warm- Layer your clothing to stay warm.
- Keep moving and stay active
- Remove condensation from around windows to reduce mould growth
- Avoid drying clothes on radiators- use a clothes airer where possible
- Avoid going out in bad weather - if you must go out, wrap up in plenty of layers
Councillor Bernard Peters, Cabinet Member for Community and Regulatory Services said: “I recognise it’s really important for residents to be able to keep warm during this cold winter period. Energy prices are increasing and no doubt residents will be concerned on how they will be able to afford to heat their homes this winter.
“Beat the Cold is a really important service who provide invaluable help and support to residents. If you are struggling this winter please contact them for help and support.”
You can get in touch with ‘Beat the Cold’ by calling 01782 914 915 or email enquiries@beatcold.org.uk.