Through Greenwich Supports, Royal Borough of Greenwich is putting an additional £150,000 into its Stay Warm Stay Safe scheme to protect as many people as possible this winter.
Prior to Greenwich Supports funding, the scheme targeted support to residents over the age of 60, and those caring for a young or vulnerable person. Additional funding now means we can support anyone who may be at risk this winter. The expansion will provide targeted support to residents struggling to afford heating bills, helping them to manage energy debt repayments and ensuring they can heat their homes throughout the winter.
Leader of the Council, Cllr Anthony Okereke, said: “Leaving residents to get through the winter with Government support that barely scratches the surface is out of the question. Increased funding for the Stay Warm Stay Safe service will help to put vulnerable residents at the centre of support during this unimaginable cost-of-living crisis.
“We have seen the vital support this scheme has provided those most impacted by rising bills, and we are continuing to step up the support available to members of our community most at risk during this tough time, to prevent them going without sufficient heat, clothing or hot food.”
Councillor Denise Scott-McDonald, Cabinet Member for Health and Adults’ Social Care, commented: “No one, especially those who are most vulnerable in our community, should be forced to turn off their heating to save on energy costs at any time of year, but particularly with the dangerously cold weather ahead.
“Our Stay Warm Stay Safe service demonstrates our commitment to supporting vulnerable people in our community in getting access to the right support and protecting their basic right to warmth and safety throughout the hardest months.”
Residents who are struggling or concerned about the wellbeing of family, friends or neighbours can contact the Council and get access to support and advice on keeping fuel bills down, benefits from the Welfare Rights service and keeping active and healthy during the winter months.
Header image ©ink drop/AdobeStock
