We understand that many families will suffer this winter because of the UK’s reliance on expensive, imported fossil fuels. While we’re doing everything we can to accelerate the transition to a renewables-based energy system, which is also the long-term solution to the current gas price crisis, we know that urgent help is needed now.
That’s why we’re supporting national energy charity, the Centre for Sustainable Energy (CSE), and its new Share the Warmth appeal – an initiative which will enable its staff to continue offering critical advice and practical and financial support to those struggling to pay their bills and heat their homes this winter.
Every day, CSE’s energy advisors talk to people that are scared and in desperate need of help. They tackle the root causes of fuel poverty – cold homes, low incomes and high energy bills – and support thousands of households each year.
With more and more people calling in, CSE’s telephone advice line is experiencing a four-fold increase in demand. The Share the Warmth appeal will support this vital service and donations will be used where they are needed most to help people in fuel poverty.
This includes people like Frank, who was left without heating or hot water.
"It was my first time asking for help and I was dreading the phone call. But Jo, my caseworker, listened to me and understood what I was going through. I can’t say how much she helped my life."
“Every day, our energy advisors speak to people struggling with energy bills, expensive heating systems, or in cold and draughty homes. Everyone has seen a huge increase in their energy bills. And with the wider cost of living crisis, CSE is hearing from more and more people worried about turning on their heating because they simply can’t afford it. Our advisors support people in crisis with energy saving advice and help to insulate and improve their home. We help when people are in debt to their gas or electricity supplier and we ensure they access the benefits they are entitled to so they can afford to heat their homes.
“It’s not right that people are living in cold, uncomfortable homes and avoiding using energy. Please help us support more people this winter by donating whatever you can to our Share the Warmth appeal.” – Janine Michael, Deputy Chief Executive, Centre for Sustainable Energy
Data from the University of York has found that more than three-quarters of households in the UK, or 53 million people, will have been pushed into fuel poverty by January 2023. People living in the poorest and coldest regions of the UK will be the worst affected along with those who are already most likely to be struggling with the cost of living.
If you’re looking for energy advice or support, please visit the CSE energy advice website.
