RESIDENTS who struggle to keep their homes warm can get support and advice through the council’s warm home check service.
The free service provides telephone advice on keeping homes warm and reducing energy costs, and gives information on the financial support available for heating.
Residents on low incomes may also qualify for a free COVID-secure home visit and help with minor improvements such as improved insulation and boiler repairs.
The warm home check service is available all year round.
Funding from the government’s Green Homes Grant scheme also means eligible households, living in the least energy efficient homes, could benefit from a range of fully funded insulation or low carbon heating improvements.
Darrell Gale, Director of Public Health at East Sussex County Council, said: “Unfortunately we know there are people in East Sussex who struggle to keep their homes warm.
“Living in a cold home can make a range of health conditions worse, such as breathing and heart problems and asthma in children. This winter it is even more important than ever to keep warm and well.
“I encourage residents to apply for a free warm home check and to see if they are eligible for further support to help them heat their homes.”
Frederick Mepham from St Leonards-on-Sea was helped by the scheme recently. Mr Mepham has a number of serious health issues which have left him vulnerable to the cold, and his flat was difficult and expensive to heat.
Following a visit from an energy advisor, it was established that Mr Mepham was eligible for energy efficiency measures including the installation of a new central heating system with thermostatic radiator valves, and cavity wall insulation.
Mr Mepham is delighted with the results and said: “It’s fantastic. When you go in now there’s such a difference.
“I used to sit with a blanket round me. Even with the electric fire on I’d sit under a blanket. Now it’s so lovely.”
Following the work Mr Mepham’s bills are cheaper and he no longer has breathing difficulties from the cold inside his flat.
Mr Mepham adds: “I have trouble breathing. Now I don’t need to go into a cold flat and not be able to get my breath.
“It’s like walking into fairyland.”
To find out more and to apply for a warm home check visit www.eastsussex.gov.uk/keepwarm, text WARM to 81400 or call 03444 111 444.