Stephen Metcalfe MP: supporting Home Heat Helpline
Stephen Metcalfe, the local MP for South Basildon and East Thurrock has today spoken in support of Home Heat Helpline, and is reminding his constituents to seek help when worried about energy bills or concerned about staying warm.
The Home Heat Helpline is a free, impartial and confidential service that provides advice on rebates, grants for insulation and new boilers, and tips on saving energy. People in Basildon and Thurrock are among the 1 in 10 households across the country that could benefit but many people don’t realise what support is available.
Stephen Metcalfe commented: “During the cold weather and the winter months, there may be some local residents who are concerned about staying warm. I would urge people to call the Home Heat Helpline for advice “
“The Home Heat Helpline is an independent helpline which has done a brilliant job in helping over 350,000 people since its launch in 2005.”
“I would also ask people to look out for neighbours, friends and relatives who may be in difficulty and make sure they are aware of the potential help offered by Home Heat Helpline”.
Lawrence Slade, spokesperson for Home Heat Helpline, said: “If anyone is feeling the cold this winter or is concerned about keeping their home warm they can call our free Helpline on 0800 33 66 99 or visit the website www.homeheathelpline.org.uk. With one in ten households across the country eligible for some kind of help they’ve got nothing to lose and possibly lots to gain by getting in touch.”
There are also some other simple steps people can take in reducing their energy. For example:
• Keep the heat in. A third of the cost of heating a home is lost through the walls, so insulating them is the best way to save energy in the home. Installing cavity wall insulation can save up to £160 per year on bills.
• Look up. Laying the loft with 10 inches/25 centimetres of insulation can save a quarter of a home’s heating costs.
• See the light. Replacing just one old light bulb with an energy saving recommended one can reduce lighting costs by up to £78 over the lifetime of the bulb. Plus they last up to 12 times longer than the ordinary light bulbs
• Get on down. Turning the thermostat down by 1˚C could cut bills by up to 10 per cent.
The Home Heat Helpline (0800 33 66 99/ 0333 300 3366) is funded by Britain’s major energy suppliers and supported by a range of support organisations including Age UK, Citizens Advice; National Energy Action, Energy Saving Trust and Gingerbread.
