North Devon’s 361 Energy CIC is backing national Fuel Poverty Awareness Day on Friday 17 February – as figures show that over 12,390 households in the area are struggling with their fuel bills.
The day marks the end of the Warm Homes Campaign, run by fuel poverty charity National Energy Action (NEA), which aims to raise awareness of the problem and some of the solutions available for those struggling to heat their homes affordably.
Nicola Corrigan, Energy Advisor and Chair of 361 Energy said: “We’d like to let people know that we’re here to help, as in North Devon almost 14% (5834 households) are in fuel poverty according to statistics from NEA. For the Torridge and West Devon area the figures are even higher, at almost 15% (6565 households). We’re hoping to improve the life chances of residents who are struggling with their fuel bills and ensure they can stay warm and healthy in their homes for this and future winters.”
People can get advice on energy efficiency, with practical hints and tips on insulating their homes, help with energy supplier and tariff switching and advice on discounts and grants available by contacting the 361 Energy team. Help is provided at local energy clinics across the region as well as one to one home visits. The 361 Energy team regularly attend coffee mornings and community events where participants are able to ask questions in an informal setting.
“We can provide training for staff and volunteers who work with vulnerable groups, and this winter we’ve been working with local GP surgeries too. “ continues Nicola.
361 Energy have also just partnered with a new pilot service called LEAP (Local Energy Advice Programme) which is being run by Agility Eco and Cosy Devon. “The eligibility requirements for LEAP are deliberately very broad to make sure that we can extend the service to anyone that either is already in, or is at risk of falling into fuel poverty. It is open to all types of householders – homeowners, private renters and social housing tenants, and we’re hopeful that we’ll be able to reach and positively help more local people than ever before.“