£75,000 raised in Dorset to support those in fuel poverty
A winter campaign will mean more people are able to heat their homes
Last updated 6th Mar 2022
More than £75,000 has raised by the community in Dorset, to help older people who might be struggling to pay their fuel bills.
Dorset Council's been working with the county's Community Foundation and Citizens Advice to appeal for donations to support those in fuel poverty.
Government estimates suggest there are 19,000 households in Dorset who aren't able to afford to heat their homes in the winter.
With rising energy bills, there are concerns that more people will be pushed into fuel poverty.
All the money raised has been given to Citizens Advice, so they can distribute grants to people in need across Dorset.
Cllr Laura Miller, Cabinet member for Customer and Community Services at Dorset Council, said:
“Winter often places additional pressures on households, especially families and vulnerable older people.
“But thanks to the generous donations from Dorset residents, more people in need have stayed warm this winter.
“Working with Dorset Community Foundation’s Surviving Winter appeal, individual grants of up to £200 have been distributed for people who face the choice between eating well and keeping homes warm.”
Kate Pryce, Energy Project Manager, Citizens Advice, said:
“As energy prices continue to rise, we are very concerned about older people being able to afford to heat their homes. We are really grateful for the donations received which has enabled us to keep helping those households who are struggling to heat their homes.”
Dorset Council has also been awarded more than £2 million from the Government to support vulnerable households.
That meant one-off grants of £200 could be given to 3,500 households in the county.
They went to people who are claiming Universal Credit, or have earnings below the 'free school meals threshold' by the end of 2021.
If you're concerned about energy bills creeping up and whether you can afford to pay them, Citizens Advice is able to offer some advice and support.
You can contact them by emailing energyadvice@cabnet.org.uk or by leaving a message on 01929 775500.
You can also call Citizens Advice Dorset's Adviceline on 0800 144 8848.