Barnsley Council’s Warm Homes team brings warm and well advice into the community this Healthy Homes Week and across the winter

Last week, from Monday 24 to Friday 28 November, we marked Healthy Homes Week with our Warm Homes team being out in the community offering advice and information.  

Healthy Homes Week is a national campaign that highlights the importance of living in a safe, warm, and healthy home. It encourages people to take steps to improve home energy efficiency, reduce health risks linked to cold homes, and access support available to keep households safe and warm during winter.  

Wednesday 26 November also marked Fuel Poverty Awareness Day, a key date dedicated to raising awareness of the impact of fuel poverty across the country.  

Throughout the week, our Warm Homes team shared practical tips on saving energy, details of grants, and guidance on keeping homes healthy through the colder months.   

The team held drop-in sessions in local libraries, as well as attending other local events to offer advice and share resources to help people in Barnsley to stay warm, well, and financially supported this winter. 

To round off the week, the team held a special event at Barnsley Market on Friday 28 November. Members of the community who visited the Warm Homes stall received information from the team, picked up information booklets, and took home free items such as a thermometer and torch key rings.  

People could also stop by for a free blood pressure check from How’s Thi Ticker, have an opportunity to receive a winter warm pack from DIAL Barnsley, and discuss what support’s available from More Money in Your Pocket, Berneslai Homes, Housing Options, Citizens Advice, and more.  

Cllr Robert Franklin, Cabinet Spokesperson for Regeneration and Culture said: “Keeping homes warm isn’t just about comfort – it’s about health and wellbeing. Healthy Homes Week and Fuel Poverty Awareness Day highlight the importance of supporting residents through the colder months.  

“Winter can be challenging, but help is available for Barnsley residents. Our Warm Homes team is here to provide practical advice and resources, and by working with partners and engaging with the community, we can help people to stay warm, safe, and healthy this winter." 

Anyone concerned about rising energy costs or struggling to keep their home warm can access support from Barnsley Council’s Warm Homes team. 

Residents are welcome to attend monthly drop-in sessions at Library @ Lightbox, held on the first Monday of each month, to speak to the team face-to-face. 

Further information, including a downloadable copy of the Warm and Well leaflet, is available on the Warm Homes page of our website. You can also contact the team by calling 01226 773366 or emailing warmhomes@barnsley.gov.uk.  

Updates and advice are regularly shared on the Warm Homes team’s Facebook page.