Warm Homes

Age UK Southampton will be carrying on its work supporting older people struggling during the colder months thanks to continued generous funding from our energy partners. The funding will help alleviate the effects of fuel poverty on older people in Southampton, through the relaunch of the Warm Homes Programme.

The Warm Homes Programme is now in its 10^th year and is needed more than ever to help older people affected by the COVID-19 pandemic to access additional benefits entitlements, meaning they can stay warm this winter.

Through this programme, older people can take advantage of free benefits advice with trained advisors from Age UK Southampton who will assess their eligibility for benefits and provide support to help make a claim. Advice is free, impartial and confidential and clients will also be given the opportunity to access Age UK Southampton’s other services and support. Due to current COVID-19 restrictions, this service to be carried out safely over the telephone or via video-link.

Peter Bennie, Age UK Southampton's Chief Officer, said: “It might seem early to start planning for the winter, but the coronavirus pandemic has made this year even tougher for older people, and it’s vital that we can give as much support as possible to help them cope in the months ahead. The sooner you make changes the sooner you will reap the benefits, especially once the cold weather gets underway. That’s why we are urging our over 65s to get in touch to find out how they can benefit from our services ahead of winter. With this generous support Age UK has already helped thousands of vulnerable older people address the biggest issues that impact on older people’s ability to stay warm and well in winter: the cost of living and heating homes efficiently.

For more information, get in touch with our Information and Advice team on 023 8036 3686"