NEWS RELEASES
Help with home heating and insulation costs
1 December 2008
ABOUT one hundred local residents are currently contacting Horsham District Council every month asking for advice about how to insulate their homes and reduce their home fuel bills.
The enquirers, many of whom are aged over 70, want to know what they can do to become more energy efficient at home whilst saving money on fuel bills at the same time.
The message given to them and everyone else is that there is a range of free or subsidised help available to a number of Horsham District residents, especially those on low incomes and who receive state benefits.
Insulating lofts and cavity walls is the most cost effective energy saving measure that can be put into a home; it will improve the energy efficiency of the building and help minimise fuel bills.
There are subsidised schemes available for all home owners and tenants of private landlords.
Typically, cavity wall and loft insulation will cost from as little as £199 each. And if anybody in the household is over the age of 70 or in receipt of a means tested benefit, then they may qualify to get these measures free of charge.
Details are outlined below:
Concerned about fuel bills this winter?
The simple guide below tells you how to keep warm, save on heating bills and make your house more energy efficient.
Insulate for less – Contact the Energy Saving Trust Advice Centre free on (0800 512 012) for impartial, local advice on making your home more energy efficient.
Warm Front is a Government funded scheme to help people on benefits to make homes warmer and more energy-efficient. Scheme includes some heating measures. To find out if you qualify call free (0800 316 6011). Horsham District Council can also offer help.
Keep your home at the right temperature – keep temperatures between 18 -21 degrees Celsius (65 -72 degrees Fahrenheit). Below 9 degrees Celsius (50 degrees Fahrenheit) means a risk of hypothermia.
Winter Fuel Payment – Everyone over 60 is entitled to claim the Winter Fuel Payment. The Winter Fuel Payments helpline is on 0845 915 1515 (text phone 0845 601 5613).
Check your entitlements – Contact the Pension Service. It can visit you at home and provide personal advice and identify benefits which over 60s are eligible for 0845 60 60 265 text phone 0845 60 60 285).
Priority Service Register – provided by energy suppliers for older or vulnerable people. Services include advance notice of electricity supply breaks and priority re-supply – important if you rely on medical equipment or a stair lift at home. Special cheaper tariffs are available from some energy suppliers. Contact your energy supplier.
Ends
CONTACT: Richard Morris, Communications Manager
Email: richard.morris@horsham.gov.uk