Devon Community Foundation launches Surviving Winter Appeal

With temperatures dropping and fuel prices rising, Devon Community Foundation have launched this year’s Surviving Winter Appeal to raise money to help the vulnerable and older people at risk in Devon this winter. The campaign is supported by local celebrities including Ann Widdecombe and Angela Rippon.

With the prospect of another cold winter, the vulnerable and older people are at risk. The Surviving Winter Appeal offers anyone who receives their Winter Fuel Payment but does not need it to donate it to help those most in need in our communities.

Martha Wilkinson, Chief Executive for Devon Community Foundation said, “Winter is a dangerous time for older people with nearly 20% of households in Devon living in fuel poverty. Around half of those include somebody over the age of 60. Fuel poverty causes serious health problems including heart attacks, strokes and pneumonia and there is a 20% increase in winter related mortality in Devon each year with around 600 older people at risk of dying in Devon as a result of fuel poverty.”

The Surviving Winter Appeal will direct funds to help those most in need to make sure they can afford to stay warm, eat well and remain mobile, as well as help them in practical ways such as ensuring the can make doctor’s appointments, get to the shops and maintain an active social life.

Martha said, “We want to tackle the problem of isolation among older people this winter who can become more cut off and struggle to leave the house in the colder months for fear of slipping or falling."

“Last year, thanks to the generosity of local people, we helped individuals as well as Community Groups such as Whipton Luncheon Club, Dartmouth Caring and Friends of Southernhay House Surgery to continue to provide additional care, comfort and support to lonely and vulnerable members of the local community. Why not think about donating your Winter Fuel Payment this year. You can of course still donate to the campaign if you do not receive the payment – we will ensure that the money is directed to those most in need of help.”

Ann Widdecombe has already offered to sign over her Winter Fuel Payment, saying, “I will be among the first to donate my Winter Fuel Payment to the Surviving Winter Appeal. This small gesture is such an easy and obvious way to support local people in real need and I hope others will follow suit.”

To donate to the Surviving Winter Appeal please visit: www.localgiving.com/communityfoundation/devon. Any money you donate will be spent locally to support vulnerable and older people in Devon during the winter months.