Warm Homes programme this winter

Age UK Surrey will be carrying on its work supporting older people struggling during the colder months thanks to continued generous funding from Eon. The funding will help alleviate the effects of fuel poverty on older people, with Age UK Surrey relaunching its Warm Homes Programme.

The Warm Homes Programme is now in its 10^th year and needed more than ever to help older people affected by the COVID-19 pandemic to access additional benefits entitlements, meaning they can stay warm this winter.

Thanks to Eon’s support, older people in Surrey can take advantage of free benefits advice with trained advisors from Age UK Surrey who will 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 Surrey can refer people to additional services and support. Due to current COVID-19 restrictions, Age UK Surrey has arranged for this service to be carried out safely over the telephone or via video-link.

Last year Age UK’s Warm Homes programme supported more than 24,000 older people and £45 million of benefits were identified. Many older people have commented on the impact this will have on their lives:

“The help from my local Age UK was straightforward and made everything so easy. The increase in the amount of money I have weekly has changed my life, meaning I’ve been able to afford a new bed and washing machine. I am very thankful.”

"Age UK have been wonderful. I had no idea I could receive help like this and I can’t thank the Charity and programme enough. It has changed my life for the better.”

Sue Zirps, CEO, at Age UK Surrey, said: “It might seem early to start planning for the winter, but the coronavirus pandemic has made this year even tougher for older people, and it’s vital that we can give as much support as possible to help them cope in the months ahead. The sooner you make changes the sooner you will reap the benefits, especially once the cold weather gets underway. That’s why Age UK Surrey are encouraging any older people in Surrey to get in touch to find out how they can benefit from our services ahead of winter”.

“With Eon’s generous support Age UK has already helped thousands of vulnerable older people address 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 Surrey that think they may need a benefits check can get in touch with Age UK Surrey by calling 01483 503414 or email: enquiries@ageuksurrey.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.