Our response to the rising cost of heating oil

In response to the cost of heating oil escalating, Age UK's Charity Director, Michelle Mitchell, said:

'It is a huge concern that the cost of heating oil is on the rise. A combination of freezing cold weather and rising fuel bills makes winter a really worrying time for many older people, particularly those on a low fixed income. Many older people have told us that they would rather turn the heating off than risk running up a fuel bill they can't afford. As another winter takes hold, plummeting temperatures will once again spell misery, ill-health and, in some cases, even death for older people. We urgently need an effective national and local emergency winter plan in place to ensure that all vulnerable older people are protected from the impact of cold weather this winter.

'Age UK has launched its Spread the Warmth campaign to help people in later life to stay warm this winter and remind people to check on friends, relatives and neighbours during the cold snap. Older people and their families can call Age UK Advice for free information and support on 0800 169 6565.'

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Notes to Editors

Age UK works in partnership with Age Scotland, Age Cymru and Age NI. For media enquiries relating to Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland please contact the appropriate national office: Age Scotland on 0131 668 8055, Age Cymru on 029 2043 1562 and Age NI on 028 9024 5729.