Free winter warmers offered by Ribble Valley Council (From Lancashire Telegraph)

Free winter warmers offered by Ribble Valley Council

9:00pm Thursday 11th October 2012 in News

A PIONEERING Ribble Valley Council scheme that saw 700 vulnerable households receive free warm home packs is to be re-launched to include boiler replacements and repairs.

The Warm Homes Healthy People scheme launched last winter with £108,000 from the Department of Health offered free electric blankets, fleece shawls, hats and gloves, flasks and thermos cups, nightlights, slippers vouchers, draft-proofing and radiator reflectors.

The packs were delivered by trained volunteers, along with advice about energy efficiency.

The scheme was a huge success and has been cited by Government as an example of best practice.

Now it is being re-launched with the addition of grants towards boiler replacements or repairs.

Ribble Valley Borough Council housing officer John Barber said: “Warm Homes Healthy People was a huge success and we are delighted to extend it to include boiler replacements or repairs.

“This will give a valuable boost to vulnerable households facing fuel poverty.”

Warm Homes Healthy People is available to Ribble Valley residents aged 65 or over, or residents with young children, and in receipt of an income-related benefit. It is also available to residents aged 85 or over regardless of income. The packs are not available to households that received them last winter.

Warm Homes Healthy People is delivered in association with Help Direct, Age UK and Ribble Valley Homes. Call 01200 425111 for details.