Local MP, Stephen Metcalfe, is encouraging people to call a free home heat helpline after new research suggests that around 5700 households in South Basildon and East Thurrock are entitled to help with their energy costs. Nationally, more than one in ten UK households are eligible for help.
The Home Heat Helpline (0800 33 66 99) is a free, impartial and confidential service that connects people and families on low incomes and those in poor health with support which is worth an average of £160. The help available includes grants for insulation, new boilers, discount and rebate schemes.
Stephen Metcalfe MP said: "Many people don’t realise what support is available. Anyone in South Basildon and East Thurrock who is concerned about staying warm should call the Home Heat Helpline and seek advice. I would also ask people to look out for neighbours, friends or relatives who may be in difficulty and make sure that they are aware of the Home Heat Helpline."
People can call the Home Heat Helpline and speak to one of the friendly advisers who will provide advice on reducing energy bills. You can also access the service online by visiting www.homeheathelpline.org.uk where a new Energy Checker will help to show if you are entitled to help.
Christine McGourty from the Home Heat Helpline also advises people to think about what they can do around the home to reduce their energy consumption: "As the weather gets colder and households turn on their heating, now is the ideal time to remind people that lots of help is available to keep warm, and that the Home Heat Helpline is there to assist them. We're urging anyone on a low income, older people, families with young children and those with long-term health conditions to call the Home Heat Helpline to claim the free help they are entitled to in reducing their bills."
There are also some other simple steps people can take in reducing their energy. For example:
- Turning your thermostat down by 1 degrees could cut your heating bills by up to 10%, saving you around £100 a year
- Turn radiators down in rooms which you only use occasionally
- Switch your lights off when you're not using them
- Turn appliances like TVs and phone chargers off at the wall rather than leaving them on standby when not in use
- Replace normal light bulbs with energy efficient ones
- Regularly defrost your freezer to make sure it's operating at full efficiency
- Draw curtains over windows at night to provide insulation for the room
- Move furniture away from radiators and heaters to allow heat to circulate around the room.
If you would like to find out whether you may be entitled to assistance, call the Home Heat Helpline on : 0800 33 66 99 or alternatively, visit: www.homeheathelpline.org.uk
