Older people urged to think ahead to winter warmth with free home energy checks
News from our partners Age UK Shropshire Telford & Wrekin (Age UK STW)
Age UK Shropshire Telford & Wrekin is urging people aged 60 plus to think ahead to the colder winter months, by offering free home energy checks.
Home Energy Checks
The local charity, that supports older people across the county, has secured some funding to offer a free advisory service which will help to make homes warmer and could save money on heating bills.
Being cold can be particularly dangerous for older people, with Shropshire having one of the highest death rates in the country in colder weather – every year 285 people die from cold-related causes. The local company working with Age UK STW say it’s not just about keeping warm as improved insulation can also keep us cool during the summer months.
Phil Newcombe, Project Manager of Marches Energy Agency, said:
“The people I visit are finding the home energy checks an interesting and enjoyable opportunity to think about how their homes work for them. This can be about keeping cool in the summer as well as warm in the winter. Improved insulation of your home can also help to keep the heat out.
“Some people have been keen to change energy providers or tariffs, others have benefitted from draught proofing of doors and windows. Other householders have needed help with installing new heating systems and insulation or urgent action on damp and mould or fuel debts.’’
Heather Osborne, Chief Executive of Age UK STW, said:
“With all this warm weather we’ve been having it’s difficult for us to think about the colder months, but the home energy check only takes an hour. We are not trying to sell anything, we simply want to offer impartial advice about how to reduce your energy bills and make your home as energy efficient as possible.
“The scheme was extremely popular in 2016 so I am really pleased we are rolling it out for another year. Last year we visited a number of older people who were desperate for help to reduce their energy bills but didn’t know where to turn, so please do pick up the phone and talk to us.”
If you would like a free Home Energy Check call Age UK STW on 01743 233123.
