Government, Age UK and Met Office launch plans to keep people warm and healthy in the cold weather
The Cold Weather Plan for England has been launched by the Department of Health, which will build on existing schemes to help those at the greatest risk of fuel poverty.
Here is an overview of the additional provisions:
- £10 million will be made available to support existing Government schemes for those at risk of fuel poverty. This will be used to provide insulation or heating improvements through the Warm Front scheme
- a new £20 million fund will be created – supported by Age UK – for local authorities and charities to address cold housing. Bids will be invited for innovative new ways to help vulnerable older people, people with disabilities or families with young children – reaching those falling through the gaps of existing schemes.
- launching a Cold Weather Plan – which will be jointly run with the Met Office and Health Protection Agency – to advise people how to stay healthy thus relieving the pressures on the NHS which winter always brings; and
- providing information on all aspects of keeping safe and well in winter via the “Getting Ready for Winter” website.
Read The Cold Weather Plan
Website: Department of Health
Amanda Frewin
Research & Project Support