Keep Warm, Keep Well

With the winter setting in across the South of the country and temperatures dropping you might notice the cold more in your home, some people will notice more than others.

On average, there are around 25,000 excess winter deaths each year in England. There is strong evidence that some of these winter deaths are indeed 'extra' and are related to cold temperatures as well as infectious diseases such as flu but many are related to fuel poverty. In 2013 there were 2.35 million households in England in fuel poverty. This is when a household is living below the poverty line and is spending more than average on their fuel bills.

Keep Your Home Warm

If you have reduced mobility, are 65 or over, or have a health condition such as heart or lung disease, you should heat your home to at least 18C. It's a good idea to keep your bedroom at this temperature all night if you can. During the day you may prefer your living room to be slightly warmer. Make sure you wear enough clothes to stay warm.

If you're under 65 and healthy and active, you can safely have your house cooler than 18C, if you're comfortable.

You can also use a hot water bottle or electric blanket (but not both at the same time!) to keep warm while you're in bed.

Cold Weather Benefits

You may also be able to claim financial and practical help with heating your home. Grants available include the Winter Fuel Payment and Cold Weather Payment.

Winter Fuel Payment

A Winter Fuel Payment of between £100 and £300 tax-free is available to help you pay your heating bills if you were born on or before January 5 1953.

Cold Weather Payment

Cold Weather Payment may be available to you if you receive certain benefits. Payments are made when your local temperature is either recorded as, or forecast to be, an average of 0C or below over seven consecutive days.

You'll get a payment of £25 for each seven-day period of very cold weather between November 1 2015 and March 31 2016.

Heat Your Home More Efficiently

Upgrade your insulation to make your home cheaper to heat, with many homes eligible for grants up to 100% it’s a cost effective way to help your home.

Improve your heating system with a boiler upgrade, with boiler replacements starting at just £1800. An A-rated boiler can save you up to £300 per year but remember to only use Oftec and Gas Safe approved installers.

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Date : 12-01-2017