Homeowners Urged to Take Advantage of Grants to Beat the Cold

Posted under Blog by Ruth

Private tenants and homeowners are being advised to help combat the big freeze this winter by claiming grants that are available to them, to help make their homes more energy efficient and more comfortable.

A partnership between the Government scheme Warm Front and the Rochdale Council means that over 2011 families with low income, the over 60s and people will disabilities have successfully applied for £3 million in grants over the past 12 months.

However, according to the management of the Warm Front programme, Eaga, there are a number of other homes in the area that could take advantage of grants but who have failed to claim what they are entitled to.

Shida Bassiti from Eaga stated that ‘thousands more who could be warmer and better off have yet to apply’.

The partnership have sent letters to over 3,400 homes to highlight the available help that could help to keep homes warmer, and keep energy costs down.

Councillor Doreen Brophy-Lee, Rochdale Council member, stated that ‘sub-zero temperatures and growing fuel bills over the last few weeks show just how important it is to take advantage of the help available to keep homes cosy whatever the weather throws at us’.

The Warm Front scheme is designed to help provide a number of heating and insulation improvements to home, up to the value of £3,500, and some homes may be eligible for grants of up to £6,000.

Improvements may include double glazing, to reduce heat lost through windows, cavity wall insulation, and loft insulation.