Pensioners urged to take heating cash (From Watford Observer)

Pensioners urged to take heating cash

12:39pm Wednesday 14th January 2009 in News

Pensioners struggling with plunging temperatures and soaring energy bills have been urged to make use of a council scheme designed to help them keep warm.

Three Rivers District Council is again running its Beat the Killer Cold Scheme this year, which can give cash grants to struggling pensioners.

The scheme, part-funded by local businesses, operates in addition to the Government’s Winter Fuel Allowance.

Age Concern said is now costs around £1,400 a year to heat the average British home – an amount increasingly difficult for people to meet living on fixed pensions.

The charity says the cost forces many pensioners either to live in one room or to cut back on food expenditure.

Three Rivers District Council said that although the scheme was proving popular many of those who are eligible for help are not claiming it. It is also keen to receive further donations from businesses.

Council Leader Ann Shaw said: "We provide the Beat the Killer Cold scheme to give some extra help to pensioners in need. Sufficient heating is not a luxury, it's a lifesaver."

For more information about the scheme contact 01923 776611 or email enquiries@threerivers.gov.uk.