WITH the threat of the coldest winter for a decade, Harrogate Borough Council is extending its grants for free loft and cavity wall insulation to anyone aged over 60 living in council tax bands A B or C.

 

Often people who fall outside the criteria for getting grants a small occupational pension of just £1 per week can push them over the boundary for eligibility need just as much support as those who are in receipt of benefits which automatically entitles them to help.

 

Harrogate Council's Cabinet Member for Housing, Councillor Jean Butterfield, has today approved this extension to the scheme.  She said:  "We believe that because of the recent steep increases in fuel prices there will be new households suffering fuel poverty for the first time this winter particularly those with residents over the age of 60.  In the last two years, the average household gas bill has risen from £327 to £445.

 

"Using the council tax banding will help us make sure we reach the most vulnerable households.  We want to hear from anyone aged 60 and over, living in a house in council tax bands A, B and C, which doesn't have loft or cavity wall insulation.  These are simple, cost effective measures that can help keep heating costs down and also help keep homes warm.  And even if they fall outside this grant extension, we can point them in the direction of where other help may be available." ENDS

 

A limited amount of funding is available so anyone interested should quickly contact the Energy Efficiency Advice Centre, York on 0800 512012 who are organising the distribution of this and other grant funding. 

 

FURTHER INFORMATION:  Councillor Jean Butterfield is available for comment on 01423 770381.  Further information on home energy conservation is available from Mr Andrew Ellis, the council's Home Energy Conservation Officer on 01423 556802.