AS MP for South Shields, I have worked closely with Eaga to promote the Warm Front Scheme, which is Government-funded.
The government affairs manager of Eaga, Anne Toms, recently contacted me to inform me that 5,130 homes in South Shields have been made warmer – which is great news.
The Warm Front scheme has been working hard to tackle fuel poverty in the town a
nd I am urging readers to come forward and get help with measures that could cut energy bills by up to £600 a year.
The work of Warm Front also helps address social issues. The scheme aims to help people with energy efficiency and is vital in helping people who may be having difficulty with their fuel bills.
It works by providing contributions of up to £2,700 towards insulation and gas heating measures for the elderly, disabled and low income families.
Homes in South Shields have benefited from a range of energy efficiency measures including loft and cavity wall insulation, new heating systems and draught proofing.
I have seen the work which has been completed first-hand, I visited a lady in Ashley Road who was delighted with her new heating system, and afamily in East Close who will benefit from cheaper bills thanks to their home being insulated.
To date, nearly £4m has been invested by Warm Front in South Shields.
Many of those who have benefited from the scheme are reporting savings of between £300 and £600 a year.
The Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change, Ed Miliband, is working with his ministers to look at how energy bills can be reduced, and suppliers have announced reductions in their costs over the last few weeks.
However, by taking advantage of the measures available, bills can be reduced further.
Did you know that more than £4bn in benefits goes unclaimed each year?
To tackle this, Warm Front ensures that those who may be struggling to pay their fuel bills receive assistance in identifying and claiming the benefits to which they are entitled.
To date, nearly 300 homes in South Shields have increased their average monthly income by more than £100.
To qualify for Warm Front, residents must either own their own home or live in privately rented accommodation and be in receipt of a qualifying benefit.
You can see if you qualify by contacting Warm Front on 0800 316 6014.
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