THOUSANDS of households in Warwickshire are living in fuel poverty, new figures show.
A new report from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero has revealed over 42,545 households in the county are living in fuel poverty, as concerns grow amid cold winter temperatures.
The report also shows that the wider West Midlands area has the highest percentage – 19.6 per cent – of residents in fuel poverty than anywhere in the country.
Malcolm Farrow, from trade association OFTEC which analysed the government data, said: “These figures are deeply worryingly but, unfortunately, not surprising.
“For years we’ve seen very little progress made in helping households out of fuel poverty. As a result, many people cannot afford to turn on their heating and we know this has a big impact, both physically and mentally.
“It’s a particularly concerning time of year as the weather turns colder. While many of us will reach for the thermostat, the reality is many households will be worrying about how they will pay their bills.
“Fortunately, there is help available and it’s essential households are aware of what they can claim.”
Coun Heather Timms, Warwickshire County Council’s spokesperson for Environment, Climate and Culture, said: “Warwickshire County Council is committed to supporting Warwickshire’s residents to stay as warm and well as possible this winter.
“Along with our partners we are running an awareness campaign through the winter months and keeping information up to date online. We look to target our resources at those communities that need help the most.”
She said the council had been distributing funds from the Household Support Fund to vulnerable residents for the last three years, and the Local Welfare Scheme had recently awarded over £200,000 in grants to local foodbanks, charities, and community groups.
She added: “We are also working with Act on Energy who can provide support to residents who may be struggling with high energy bills or managing energy related debt. They can support with boiler servicing, repairs and assist with general home heating and energy enquiries.”
Call Act on Energy on 0800 988 2881 or visit www.actonenergy.org.uk/support/hsf-warks for more information.
Visit www.warwickshire.gov.uk/energyadvice, www.warwickshire.gov.uk/managing-money-debt/household-support-fund and www.costoflivingwarwickshire.co.uk for more information on support available in Warwickshire.
Visit www.gov.uk/winter-fuel-payment, www.gov.uk/cold-weather-payment/eligibility and www.gov.uk/the-warm-home-discount-scheme for other forms of support available nationally.
