Council takes action to prevent fuel poverty with new grant

STUART PIKE

ROSSENDALE council is taking action on fuel poverty to provide eligible residents with little or no cost insulation and brand new A-rated boilers.

The council’s Affordable Warmth Grant provides funding for first-time central heating, boiler upgrades, radiator repairs and gas fire replacements.

The scheme is managed by award-winning Community Interest Company YES Energy Solutions on behalf of the council. Installations are completed through YES Energy Solutions’ network of accredited contractors.

Widowed mum-of-two Katie Crossley was facing a winter with a completely broken boiler when she and her sons aged 11 and 16, were referred to the scheme.

She said: “Michaela from YES Energy Solutions was so informative. It was minus three in the house – no hot water, no heating, nothing.

“She was straight onto it, she was an absolute star. I really do feel like she saved my life at the time.”

There are different levels of funding available depending on individual circumstances, which includes receiving means tested benefits or having high-energy bills in relation to their income.

Residents that are either elderly, have a young family, or a health condition made worse by the cold, could also qualify.

The Government’s Energy Company Obligation (ECO) scheme is providing additional funds to the scheme for certain residents.

Residents who feel they may qualify for the scheme are advised to call YES Energy Solutions on 01422 880100.

●● Mum-of-two Katie Crossley was helped by Rossendale council’s Affordable Warmth Grant after suffering a broken boiler