Posted on Friday 20th March 2020
Eligible households in Newcastle-Under-Lyme could be helped out of fuel poverty thanks to a brand new scheme.
Homes that currently aren’t connected to gas, and meet certain eligibility criteria, could get a brand new fully funded central heating system thanks to the Staffordshire Warmer Homes initiative.
The scheme is being rolled out in Newcastle-Under-Lyme throughout March and April 2020.
Up to 1,000 fuel poor households in Staffordshire could benefit from the initiative. Added to this, wider support around making homes easier to keep warm and appropriate access to benefits will be given to around 12,000 people.
The £150m Warm Homes Fund has been established by National Grid to support councils in addressing some of the issues affecting fuel poor households. Other funding for the initiative has been provided from public sector partners.
To deliver this initiative in Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire County Council is working in partnership with E.ON and the Borough Council.
Eligible households are being written to directly, but others who think they might be eligible are being urged to go to www.staffordshire.gov.uk/warmerhomes or call E.ON on 0333 202 4481 to find out more and apply.
Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Health, Care and Wellbeing Alan White said:
“Fuel poverty affects thousands of people across the country. This contributes to a number of health problems, as respiratory, cardiovascular and mobility conditions can be made worse if an individual is living in a cold home.
“We’re keen to ensure that as many eligible people in Newcastle-Under-Lyme as possible find out more about the scheme and apply, so we can identify as many people as possible who are at risk of fuel poverty and related health risks, provide support and advice, and get them the help they need.”
Cllr. Helena Maxfield, the Borough Council’s Cabinet member for community safety and well-being, said:
“This is a fantastic initiative which will make a significant impact on the quality of life of many of our residents. I would encourage people to come forward and take advantage of the scheme not only from the fuel poverty perspective but also to unlock benefits which they are entitled to and can make a difference to their lives.”