Almost half of older people are struggling to pay for energy bills- says Gloucestershire charity
Age UK estimate 45% of older people cannot keep up with fuel payments this winter
Age UK Gloucestershire are delivering warm pack to older people across the county this winter.
The charity are identifying those who are vulnerable, with health issues, and facing fuel poverty.
Packs include a flask and hot chocolate, fluffy draft excluder and radiator bleed key, room thermometer and electric throw to provide an efficient method of keeping a person warm, helping to reduce the health risks associated with living in a colder home.
By the end of February the charity estimate they will have provide the community with 200 warm packs.
Jane Shute, from Age UK Gloucestershire, said: "We are identifying those most in need and providing them with support. It is critical to reach the older people to ensure they are warm.
"It is really evident there are people who don't put their heating on because they can't afford it.
"Keeping warm is crucial to reduce the risk of poor health and helps to keep hospital admissions down."