Energy bill help to keep vulnerable cosy

A new scheme is being rolled out in Aberdeen that aims to support 300 vulnerable households with energy bills this winter.

Originally tested in England, NHS Grampian will pilot the programme here with people who suffer from respiratory conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) first on the list for support.

For those suffering from respiratory conditions a warm home is vital and could help them avoid a trip to the hospital.

The idea was originally brought forward by thinktank Energy Systems Catapult.

Dr Rose Chard from Energy Systems Catapult said: “We know that COPD and other respiratory illnesses are made worse by living in a cold home, and so specifically for those people who are at risk, if they live in a cold home they are likely to get poorly, visit their GP more often and visit the hospital more often.”

NHS Grampian has already selected the households eligible, with Dr Chard noting a good uptake.

The scheme’s cost is being covered by BP through its social impact fund.