Over the past few winters we have provided energy top-ups to people struggling with energy costs, but we have realised that with rising costs and many with debt on their bills, this was making little impact. We want to take a longer-term approach to address fuel poverty and so in partnership with Citizens Advice Epsom and Ewell and Chris Grayling MP we are running the Energy Support Scheme.
The Energy Support Scheme offers gas/electricity tops-ups to provide some immediate relief, along with advice on ways to reduce energy consumption, which includes offering to purchase new equipment for people to replace old appliances that are draining energy. We will be supporting at least 80 households and have been able to provide energy-saving appliances such as air fryers, heated airers, and blankets.
Clients continue to give encouraging feedback. One person said: “I found the workshop very helpful and really enjoyed talking to the other participants, sharing tips on how to save energy. The takeaway tips are also very informative… Thank you so much for your kindness and for giving me really useful information about the cost of energy and how to reduce usage and keep warm and safe this winter, which like many people has been scaring the life out of me.”
Another said: “I certainly think more about what appliances are on and what we don’t need to use…. Have already used air fryer and not had oven on for a few days. Great help, thank you.”
We are planning more energy support sessions at Leatherhead Community Hub, Merland Rise Church and Epsom Pantry. This is funded by generous donations from our community. If you would like to contribute, please visit the Just Giving page by clicking on the link:
https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/epsom-ewell-energy-support-scheme
