Justin Tomlinson MP at the British Gas “Getting ready for Winter” event
With the costs of food, clothing, and energy all on the increase, Justin Tomlinson MP is calling on fellow North Swindon residents to winter-proof their homes and their finances to keep energy costs down.
Currently, around £1 of every £4 spent on heating our homes is wasted because of a lack of adequate insulation. And with over 6 million cavity walls unfilled, and 10 million lofts left unlagged, huge amounts of money is being wasted.
Justin Tomlinson MP said: “If people in North Swindon take action and get the free energy efficiency that they are entitled to, then they can save themselves hundreds of pounds every year. If they act now they can be ready long before winter.”
Under the Government’s new ‘Warm Home Discount’, the most vulnerable customers will receive a discount on energy bills. Elderly pensioners struggling on a low income could get as much as £130 a year off their electricity bills. Low income families, those with long term illnesses or disabilities may also receive the discount. The scheme will be worth £1.13 billion to the most vulnerable in society over the next four years. Customers of British Gas can take advantage of the company’s offer to insulate their homes free if they apply before 22nd December 2011.
Justin recently met with charities such as Citizen’s Advice and Age UK at an Open Day at the House of Commons, where he discussed what support was available for stretched household budgets during the winter months. Justin Tomlinson MP said “These charities are doing a great job helping people to get the support they need with their energy bills. They are able to talk you through what you may be eligible for and even apply on your behalf – I would urge people to give them a call or visit a drop in centre for advice.”
The Government also supports the most vulnerable with their energy bills through the Winter Fuel Payment for pensioners, which is worth up to £300 to individuals to help them keep warm. Cold Weather Payments of £25 a week are also paid to those on pension credit, as well as to those on income support with small children or those who have a disabled person in the household. Over 4 million households will automatically receive this benefit this winter.
Customers on lower incomes, whoever their supplier is, can also call the Home Heat Helpline on 0800 980 8177 to see if they are eligible for free insulation or discounted bills.
For advice on how else you can save money on energy bills as part of the Government's 'Check, Switch, Insulate' campaign visit http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/DG_199725