Croydon homeowners and private tenants are being encouraged to take advantage of a council scheme that ensures they keep warm this winter and save hundreds of pounds.
The Croydon Healthy Homes initiative was approved last March by the council’s cabinet to give over 600 struggling households savings of up to £400 a year through help with energy costs. This includes:
• Free energy assessments
• Support to find and switch to the best tariffs for gas and electricity
• A property survey to see if they need larger energy-saving measures, such as wall insulation
• Advice on whether they are eligible for help with their bills and support signing up
• Optional help with fitting free energy-saving measures, including LED lightbulbs and carbon monoxide detectors
• Help on how to use your heating controls, including smart meters
Each assessment will include the fitting of small energy-efficiency measures such as radiator reflector panels, support with energy bills and advice on avoiding damp and mould issues. Residents receiving these assessment visits can also find out about other local support such as fire safety and healthier living.
Eligible households are referred to the Greater London Authority’s Warmer Homes scheme, which funds the installation of new energy-efficient boilers, cavity wall and loft insulation, and other improvements for homeowners.
Croydon Healthy Homes is open to homeowners and residents in the private rented sector who are either over 70, receive at least one benefit or have someone in their household with a long-term health condition. They can refer themselves for an assessment or can be referred by professionals such as GPs or social workers.
Based on Government figures, Croydon has over 16,000 households that are considered to be fuel poor, meaning they have higher than average energy costs that would leave them with a disposable income below the poverty line.
“As winter sets in, many people will be worrying about the cost of keeping their home warm. Our Croydon Healthy Homes initiative gives valuable support to vulnerable local people, so I urge residents to get in touch with the council so we can give them the help they need.”
Councillor Stuart King, cabinet lead for environment and transport
For more information, and to register for the free scheme, visit the council website.
