Thousands of disabled Plymouth residents to stay warm and well thanks to Big Lottery grant

Local social enterprise, Plymouth Energy Community (PEC) has been awarded more than £460,000 to continue pioneering community work to prevent fuel poverty in the city.

The project, Warm and Well, will take place over four years and will reach 3,500 households that have health conditions, physical and learning disability or mental health needs, to minimise the causes and symptoms of fuel poverty.
Alistair Macpherson, CEO of PEC said: “We are absolutely thrilled that Big Lottery is backing us with this grant”

“Two thirds of the fuel poor households we’ve supported over the last 18 months have a disability or long-term illness.

“Far too many people have to choose between heating and eating and it affects residents’ physical and mental health. There is an urgent need for this project and we can now work to find effective and accessible ways to improve the situation.”

The project aims to improve confidence to manage home energy needs, as well as improve physical and financial circumstances. Free services will include home visits, help to claim welfare benefits and grants, community advice drop-ins and education on controlling energy use and cost.

A further £200,000 has been pledged to the Warm and Well project by partners, including Plymouth City Council. Funds will enable the installation of simple measures like draught proofing, as well as efficient heating systems and boilers to tackle cold, damp homes.

Councillor Michael Leaves, Cabinet Member for Strategic Street scene and the Environment for Plymouth City Council said: “We are proud to be supporting PEC with this project. They continue to demonstrate huge commitment and innovation in tackling some of the city’s biggest challenges.”

PEC launched fuel poverty outreach services for residents in 2014 and has helped over 3000 households improve their circumstances so far. Mr Masterson a pensioner from Whitleigh already benefiting said: “PEC was the light at the end of a very long tunnel. Everything has changed and I can now concentrate on what is most important, my health.”

The Community Benefit Society is increasingly becoming a voice for people unfairly treated and, based on their experiences, have launched a petition calling on Ofgem (the Government’s energy regulator) to stop energy suppliers from forcing vulnerable customers into debt.

For further information on PEC’s free help and support services, their local renewable energy investment opportunities and to sign their petition, visit www.plymouthenergycommunity.com or call 01752 477117.