We know this winter is going to be particularly tough for so many people, given the cost of living crisis and energy bills reaching a record high.
Looking after our customers all year round is a crucial priority for us, and I want to let you know about some of the ways we’re supporting communities this winter. In particular, people who need help to maintain a safe and warm home.
I’m really proud to say we’ve just launched our Safe and Warm Community Scheme, which will help over 5,000 of our customers in Scotland and the south of England cope with the difficulties they’ll face this winter and beyond. Working alongside the Centre for Sustainable Energy (CSE), the £500,000 programme will help local community charities and groups to support people who are living in fuel poverty and financial hardship.
The CSE is an excellent national charity supporting people and organisations across the UK to tackle the climate emergency and end the suffering caused by cold homes. We really are delighted to be working with them in our network areas. Our partnership will target those who are most affected by the cost of living crisis.
Mobile hubs
Our new Safe and Warm Community Hub vans will also be on the road soon, which is very exciting and means we can reach even more people in need of our help. Specially trained advisers will be visiting communities we’re working in, to offer support and guidance on things such as energy efficiency. They will work to connect people who can’t afford to maintain a safe and warm home with the best support services available. Also, they will help customers join the Priority Services Register, while providing a safe space to get a hot drink and friendly chat.
We’re doing all of this alongside the fantastic work that’s already happening with our established partners such as Age Scotland, Citizens Advice, MyBnk, Scope and Fuel Bank Foundation. All year we’ve been supporting these highly regarded and trusted organisations, to assist people of all ages living in vulnerable situations, to cope with their living costs and provide essential gas and carbon monoxide safety advice.
Throughout the winter months, we’re supporting our partners more than ever to make sure they can reach those most in need, such as the elderly, disabled people, those with long term or chronic illnesses and the financially vulnerable.
My sincere thanks go to our people and our partners for their hard work and commitment in reaching people who need the most help during the incredibly difficult period ahead.
