East Devon supports CosyDevon heating fund

Eligible low income households urged to apply now for help with free gas central heating fittings and installation

It is estimated that 43,900 excess winter deaths occurred in England and Wales in 2014/15, but shockingly, the highest numbers were in the South West. This is the largest amount since 1999/00, with 27% more people dying in the winter months compared with the non-winter months.

Sadly, the free gas central heating that has been available to eligible households over the past 18 months will end in early October. So East Devon District Council is highlighting the offer of free assistance with gas central heating systems, which is available through the CosyDevon Central Heating Fund. The council is urging households not to miss out on staying warm this winter by applying as soon as possible, before the deadline for applications closes in early October.

The CosyDevon Central Heating Fund is supported by local authorities, such as East Devon, and managed by their scheme partners E.ON, AgilityEco, National Energy Action (NEA) and Integrated Energy Services. It offers eligible residents a new connection to the gas grid, a complete gas central heating system - including a new energy efficient boiler, radiators in every room and room thermostats.

To find out more about the Central Heating Fund call 0800 612 9301 or apply online at www.tinyurl.com/cosydevon

Get in touch now, and avoid struggling to keep warm this winter.

To be eligible, residents need to own or privately rent their home and not have an existing central heating system. People living in the house must either be on a low income of less than £16,010 gross per annum and referred by a health professional due to a long-term health condition exacerbated by the cold, or receiving income related benefits. Plus the property must be close to the gas mains.

Councillor Jill Elson, East Devon District Council’s portfolio holder for Sustainable Homes and Communities said: “Keeping warm in the winter is vital, particularly if you are elderly, have reduced mobility or have a serious health condition. In fact cold homes can have a very detrimental impact on people’s health. Hypothermia is a killer and health issues such as arthritis and Parkinson’s make it harder for a person to keep their body warm. So it is vital that people are made aware of the help that is available through funds such as CosyDevon.”