BARROW residents struggling to save money on their energy bills while also suffering from cold and draughty houses are being encouraged to contact the Cold to Cosy Homes Cumbria service.
Cumbria Action for Sustainability (CAfS) is working alongside Barrow Borough Council, as well as with local councils across the North-West, on delivering free advice, energy-saving equipment and other practical help available to householders.
The Cold to Cosy Homes scheme is a free project dedicated to helping residents who are struggling with their cold and draughty houses while helping to cut heating costs.
Advisors from the Cold to Cosy Homes project can provide advice over the phone and ensure that energy-saving measures are in place to improve efficiency and reduce costs.
Residents can save money on their energy bills through simple measures like LED light bulbs, draught exclusion and radiator reflectors, all offered free of charge through the scheme.
Councillor Kevin Hamilton, Barrow Borough Council’s spokesperson for housing, explained with summer coming to an end it was imperative residents who were struggling to keep their homes warm were made aware of the help available.
He said: “We need to make sure we are prepared for winter this year. Cumbria is known for its harsh weather conditions, but with the ongoing climate crisis, the weather will certainly be more extreme than in previous years.
“I’d really like to encourage those struggling to save money on their energy bills to contact the Cold to Cosy Homes helpline. Especially elderly residents who need that extra support to cope with the colder months that lie ahead.
“Just applying simple measures in your home such as replacing light bulbs with LED versions could make a big difference to your bills. It’s worth getting in touch with Cold to Cosy Homes just to see what positive changes you can do to your home.”
Cold to Cosy Homes Cumbria is delivered by CAfS, with a network of trusted Cumbrian tradespeople carrying out the more substantial energy efficiency installations. It is funded through the Energy Industry Voluntary Redress Scheme and partners include Local Energy Advice Partnership (or LEAP) and all the counties local authorities.
It is available to those who meet fit within a wide range of eligibility based on income, health and vulnerability criteria.
Andrew Northcott, energy efficiency project manager with CAfS, said: “Booking a call means you get expert advice on ways to get a warmer home, save energy at home, cut your bills and reduce your carbon footprint. Many calls can lead on to real benefits, making big improvements to warmth and energy use.
“I suggest people contact us as soon as possible to check eligibility for the free scheme and book a call.
“By partnering with local authorities we have been able to provide many more visits across the district and focus on the areas and households that can benefit the most.”
Apply for a free Cold to Cosy Homes advice call by emailing the team on [email protected] or calling: 01768 216500.
