ACT ON Energy’s David Hardy has some freebies.
He is giving away heated throws which can save a lot of money – between 3p to 4p an hour in electricity.
Those struggling with bills may qualify if their household income is less than £31k or if they have means-tested benefits, or are vulnerable and their dwelling has low energy performance (EPC of D or below).
Email [email protected] for advice, insulation or energy grant support or go to: actonenergy.org.uk – the Act On Energy website.
How can we keep warm on a budget?
2022 statistics show our space heating uses 62.8 per cent of our energy bills so turn radiators off in rooms rarely used, stuff gaps with draft excluders (but not if we use wood-burning stoves or open fires) and use thermal blackout linings behind our curtains whilst keeping them closed.
When we watch TV, sit under a heated blanket to warm yourself rather than the surrounding air.
Water heating bills cost 15.1 per cent, so ideally turn this down a degree or two and do laundry at 30 degrees (it is better for the clothes anyway) and air-dry it where possible.
Lighting costs 14.5 per cent (save a lot with LEDs) and cooking uses 6.1 per cent, so let’s use microwaves, air-fryers and slow-cookers rather than electric ovens.
It is extraordinary the average UK household spends £60-a-year powering appliances on standby. Lastly, let’s insulate our homes if we can afford it, starting with the loft.
We need to keep moving, take exercise indoors and out to keep our circulation going and wear appropriate clothing layers. It is also good to attend activities in warm hubs like Catshill Baptist church.
Let’s feel good about claiming all the benefits we are entitled to, notably Pension Credit, which might trigger a Winter Fuel Allowance. After all, the benefit system is not particularly generous. Also avoid estimated bills by supplying regular meter readings, and claim water-saving freebies at GetWaterFit.co.uk – we must also not skimp on safety measures like smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.
Whatever you do, do not believe global warming will keep you warm. It will not.
The numbers are a global average.
Global warming causes weather extremes like flash floods, huge storms, large hailstones, heavy snow that can all be sustained.
You may well need help from family, friends, neighbours and the wider community in such circumstances.
