Earlier this year the Suffolk Warm Homes service successfully gained funding from Government to help households in Suffolk, struggling to afford to heat their homes. The deadline to apply for this assistance is fast approaching.

Householders who have no central heating and are entirely reliant on room heaters or old, inefficient storage heaters, can apply to be considered for a fully funded central heating system. This will use either mains gas (if available), or oil. In exceptional cases it may use efficient air source heat pumps or wood fuel.

Councillor Beccy Hopfensperger, Suffolk County Council’s cabinet member for Adult Care said:

"We are thrilled to have received the funding to install central heating for the first time in up to 270 homes across the county and even more pleased to see how many people have taken this offer up. Two thirds of the funding has now been allocated, with around 180 quotes being completed to date. This winter those homes will see a huge difference in their quality of life.

"Suffolk's Warm Homes Healthy People project helps vulnerable people and families make their homes cheaper to heat. The project can provide access to grants to help pay for insulation and basic draught proofing, financial assistance towards the cost of repairs or replacements, as well as suggesting energy efficiency improvements that could make a real difference to your heating bills.

"We continue to urge anyone who has a vulnerable relative or neighbour to help them find out what support and assistance might be available to them.”

You could be eligible for help if your household income is below £17,000, your savings are below £5,000 and;

• You are aged over 63
• You live with children under 5
• Someone living with you has a long term health condition or disability

If you, a family member or a neighbour are struggling to stay warm, then please call our Local Rate Helpline on 03456 037 686 or email whhp@eastsuffolk.gov.ukfor free advice on the following:

The deadline to apply for a central heating system is 30 November,so act now to take advantage of this offer of a lifetime.