RESIDENTS struggling to heat their homes have the chance to apply for funding to replace or introduce a central heating system by Worcestershire County Council and fuel poverty charity, National Energy Action (NEA).
The funding is available for low income, private homeowners who have a long term health condition made worse by living in a cold home.
To qualify for financial help, homeowners need to meet the following eligibility criteria:
· In receipt of means tested benefits or have an income below £16,010 per year.
· A member of the household has a diagnosed long term health condition such as respiratory or cardiovascular disease. (See full eligibility criteria for a more comprehensive list of conditions.)
· Have an old and inefficient or broken central heating system or no central heating system in your home
Jenny Saunder, OBE, chief e of NEA added: “This is a new and exciting programme for NEA. The evidence base clearly demonstrates that living in a cold home can cause premature death and can exacerbate a range of health conditions potentially costing the NHS over £22 billion in the next 15 years.
“Partnerships funded through this programme will demonstrate how improving the energy efficiency of our housing stock can improve health and well being.”
For more information including full eligibility criteria visit www.warmerworcestershire.com or contact Act on Energy 0800 988 2881
To confirm your eligibility and register your interest contact Act on Energy 0800 988 2881
Funding is allocated on a first come first served basis and will require a home visit from an energy advisor to evidence householder eligibility. The scheme will close in March 2017 or sooner if all the funding is allocated before.
