Article: Fuel Poverty and Affordable Warmth Article Body A household is in fuel poverty when it has to spend more than 10% of its income to maintain an adequate level of heating in the home. The three main causes of fuel poverty are: • low household income • low energy efficiency standard of the house • fuel prices. It is estimated that there are at least 20,500 households in fuel poverty across the Borough whilst many more, given the increase in fuel prices over the last year, are in danger of falling into the fuel poverty trap. This is bad news, especially so in regard to the impact on health - cold and damp housing often leads to deterioration in health and is a particular danger for older people. So, what can you do to tackle fuel poverty? If your home is cold and damp this link will take you to our home energy efficiency webpage which highlights the range of assistance that is available to help you to improve insulation levels in your home and perhaps install other energy efficiency measures. If you are on a low income you should check to ensure that you are receiving all the benefit payments that you may be entitled to. The Council's Welfare Advice team will be able to assist you with any enquiries. You should also make sure that you are receiving the best deal possible from your energy suppler. The Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) have developed Energy Best Deal to help customers access advice on fuel debt and how to deal with fuel suppliers, including changing supplier and changing to a cheaper 'social tariff'. For further information please click on this link. Alternatively, for further information on the best energy deals you might want to visit a fuel cost comparison website such as uswitch. Surviving Winter Appeal This national appeal, coordinated by the South Yorkshire Community Foundation in South Yorkshire, was originally inspired by individuals who wanted to donate their Winter Fuel Payment to support older and vulnerable people who are less fortunate than themselves to stay warm in winter. Now everyone is being encouraged to make a donation - if you are interested in doing so follow this link to the South Yorkshire Community Foundation website. Warm Home Discount Scheme The Warm Home Discount scheme helps low-income and vulnerable households with energy costs. The scheme provides £120 rebate on your electricity bills in winter 2011/12. For more information on the scheme and to find out if you qualify please click on this link. Contact Tel: 01226 772518 & 775184 Write: The Energy Efficiency Officer Strategy, Growth and Regeneration PO Box 634 Barnsley S70 9GG Email: housing@barnsley.gov.uk Opening Times: Monday to Thursday: 09:00am to 05:00pm Friday: 09:00am to 04:30pm