Warm hearts for freezing homes

Freezing temperatures at this time of year will increase the risk of excess winter deaths for Wiltshire and Swindon as people in fuel poverty struggle to stay warm.

Up to 30,000 households in the county are in fuel poverty, spending at least 10% of their income on fuel and 300 people died last year through cold-related illnesses over the winter in Wiltshire. Wiltshire Community Foundation is working to combat this issue by providing Surviving Winter grants to those most in need of support.

Norman from Chippenham has received such help with his fuel bills. He said, “This has taken a lot of worry from me, as my electricity bills are so heavy.  I am over 90 years old and have heart trouble.  I have to keep the house warm.  I feel the cold so much.  Your grant has helped me feel comfortable.”

Donations have reached £47,000 helping over 100 households so far but the calls are still coming in.  If you can help someone stay warm this winter please consider donating to Surviving Winter.

Donate online at www.wiltshirecf.org.uk/donate or call 01380 729284 to donate by credit card or text WARM2110 to 70030 to donate £10 through your phone bill.

If you know someone who would benefit from a grant please contact one of Wiltshire Community Foundation’s partners, Age UK Wiltshire, Aster Living Care & Repair, CAB Wiltshire, CAB Swindon, Swindon Credit Unions or Wiltshire Credit Unions.