ELDERLY people in Peterborough will be kept warm this winter thanks to the united work of four city groups.
Green charity Peterborough Environment City Trust (PECT) has joined forces with Peterborough City Council, the Salvation Army and Age UK to launch a new three month project to stop winter-related deaths.
Statistics show that an average of 86 people in Peterborough die annually during winter due to cold weather. The Winter Warmth Partnership project aims to stop these preventable deaths from happening by ensuring older people receive the support and benefits they are entitled to, as well as offering practical advice on reducing the cost of energy bills.
PECT’s communities team leader, Maxine Palmer, said, “It’s unacceptable that older people are suffering during the colder months of the year.
“This kind of suffering is easily prevented – this project is about making sure older people are aware of and can access the services and support on offer to them.
“We would urge any older person in Peterborough, as well as their concerned children or grandchildren to call our hotline.
“Older people are entitled to a range of free help and benefits – with the cold weather setting in, now is a good opportunity to make sure you are receiving the help you need.”
Local residents aged 75 and over are urged to call 01733 882 544 from Monday to Friday, from 9am to 5pm, and speak to a trained advisor for advice on how to prevent fuel poverty.
As part of the initial phone call a home visit will be scheduled where residents can receive one-to-one advice in the comfort of their own homes.
Specialist Winter Warmth partnership advisors carry out the home visits to advise older residents about any benefits and relevant key services they might be entitled to.
Advice will be provided on how to reduce the cost of energy bills and stay warm and healthy during winter.
The energy check will look at whether drafts are being excluded, whether heating is being effectively controlled by timers, and whether home insulation has been installed. Referrals to relevant organisations, for example free loft insulation schemes or city council’s Care and Repair scheme, will then be made.