Domestic energy and sustainability charity National Energy Foundation has teamed up with gas distribution network SGN for a new referral service helping people stay warm during the winter.
Cold homes cost the NHS in England £1.36bn every year in hospital and primary care, and are particularly associated with respiratory problems and heart attacks. Through their Better Housing Better Health initiative, National Energy Foundation aim to prevent ill health and reduce pressure on NHS services by making homes warmer and healthier places to live through practical energy efficiency improvements and advice.
Through the Vulnerability and Carbon Monoxide Allowance (VCMA), we’ve been given funding by the energy regulator Ofgem to spend on projects which can support vulnerable customers or raise awareness of carbon monoxide (CO) between 2021 and 2026.
It allows us to provide financial support for National Energy Foundation’s central helpline where they can give impartial expert advice to reduce energy bills and improve the energy efficiency of the home. When speaking with residents, they conduct a Warm and Well Assessment looking closely at their household and its financial circumstances.
National Energy Foundation provide free, confidential and tailored solutions to meet a resident’s specific circumstances including addressing concerns with energy debt, maximising income, signing up to the Priority Services Register and accessing funding to help support them. They also work with other local partners and can refer residents into additional services that might be of use to them.
Kerry Potter, Group Social Impact and Vulnerability Manager at SGN, said: “Working together with partners like National Energy Foundation means we can target help to people most vulnerable to energy debt caused by cold weather and the cost of living crisis. We’re already seeing a real difference in our communities and we’re excited to support the Better Housing Better Health initiative go from strength to strength.”
Dave Evans, Chief Executive Officer at National Energy Foundation, said: “As a charity, we rely on the financial support and expert knowledge of partners like SGN. Our passionate and experienced team are focused on reducing fuel poverty, cutting household carbon emissions and creating healthier communities through innovative projects and community integration. The support of SGN allows us to help more people at a crucial time when they need it most.”
Find out more about how we’re supporting vulnerable households here.
