Age UK set to make winter warmer for over 65s

 E.ON funding continues to support Age UK’s Warm Homes Programme

Age UK is set to continue its work supporting older people struggling during the colder months, thanks to continued generous funding from E.ON. The funding will help alleviate the effects of fuel poverty on older people by relaunching its Warm Homes Programme.

The Warm Homes Programme is now in its 9^th year and last year, we helped 12,000 older people boost their income by, on average, £3,000.

Thanks to E.ON’s support, local Age UKs and Age Cymru partners across England and Wales, including Age UK North Tyneside, will be able to help to older people to reduce their energy consumption and become warmer during colder winter months.

Older people in North Tyneside can take advantage of free benefits advice with trained advisors who can assess their eligibility for benefits and provide support to claim what they are entitled to. Advice is free, impartial and confidential and also means that Age UK North Tyneside can refer people to additional services and support.

Last year Age UK’s Warm Homes programme supported thousands of older people. Through the programme, more than 12,000 older people were helped and £36 million of benefits were identified. This means that, on average around £3,000 per older person per year. Many older people have commented on what impact this service will have on their lives:

 “After receiving my attendance allowance my everyday life has not been such a financial worry, I can't thank this service enough for what it has done for me.”

“The advice received from your colleagues was one of encouragement and with genuine understanding and sympathy for our health issues. I was delighted when both of our applications were accepted.”

Rebecca Rutter, Information, Advice & Campaigns Manager, at Age UK North Tyneside, said: “It might seem early to start planning for the winter, but the sooner you make changes the sooner you will reap the benefits, especially once the cold weather gets underway. That’s why Age UK North Tyneside are encouraging anyone in North Tyneside to get in touch to find out how they can and benefit from our services ahead of winter. 

“With E.ON’s generous support Age UK has already helped thousands of vulnerable older people address two of the biggest issues that impact on older people’s ability to stay warm and well in winter: the cost of living and heating homes efficiently.

“Older people in North Tyneside that think they may need a benefits check, can get in touch with Age UK North Tyneside  by calling 0191 2808484 Option 1 or e mail enquiries@ageuknorthtyneside.org.uk”

For more information and advice on how to save money on your energy bills, download Age UK’s Save Energy Pay Less and Winter Wrapped Up guides. Older people and their families can also check out Age UK’s energy saving top tips – see below.  Older people and their families and friends can also seek advice from the Charity’s free, Age UK Advice helpline 0800 169 6565.

For more information about Age UK North Tyneside and the services the Charity offers click on the links below or call 0191 2808484 Option 1.