Warm and Well have developed a series of leaflets and advice materials on energy efficiency measures and the need for healthy temperatures in the home.
It is well documented that living in a cold, damp home aggravates respiratory and cardiovascular illness, and may increase the risk of accidents. Improvements to energy efficiency and heating are effective at improving comfort and saving energy and money. There are many schemes to help needy people with the up-front costs. However, those most in need often do not know, or understand, what can be done. So SWEA set up the 'Gloucestershire Warm and Well' partnership, linking seven local authorities with a range of organisations working on health and community support. The scheme is run throughout Gloucestershire and offers energy saving measures and advice to homeowners and private rented tenants. Discounts and advice are offered to everyone, and free installations are offered to those on low incomes, with health problems, or aged over 70. Strong links with health and social sectors have helped to identify the neediest households.
Between 2001 and March 2006, the scheme has made improvements including insulation, draught-proofing and central heating in 8,957 properties, or 3.6% of all housing in Gloucestershire. The scheme is funded mainly by the Local Authorities, with support from Scottish Power and the Primary Care Trusts, and contributions from householders who can afford to pay.
