The new data from Cadent’s Energy Diaries shines a light on the hard choices struggling households are having to make when it comes to heating their home or facing potential health issues as a result, with more than two fifths (44%) feeling more financially vulnerable this winter than last. Additionally, over half expressed feelings of anxiety, a sentiment Cadent has observed across all demographics since the beginning of the cost-of-living crisis.
Recognising the link between health issues and those living in fuel poverty, last year in a landmark partnership, Cadent, alongside the Cadent Foundation, partnered with Birmingham Community Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust Charity to create a brand new ‘Well & Warm’ service.
A £2.4m grant was provided to support 100,000 of the most vulnerable people living in Birmingham over a two-year period, delivering crucial support for those in fuel and general poverty who would otherwise struggle to leave hospital or remain healthy and warm at home.
The newly created ‘Direct Access to Wellbeing Services Team’ (DAWS), is already delivering fully funded financial, energy and carbon monoxide advice, as well as promoting early health messages to keep people well at home. Bespoke in-home energy efficiency interventions and income maximisation support are also being provided in partnership with Act on Energy.
Suzanne Cleary, Chief Officer for Strategy and Partnerships at Birmingham Community Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Through the DAWS initiative, we have seen first-hand the hard choices people are having to make with regards to heating their homes and the detrimental impact this can have on their physical and mental health. By working in partnership with Cadent, we are supporting our most vulnerable patients, ensuring they do not need to make this heartbreaking choice. The DAWS initiative means that we are able to help local people to stay well and warm at home and, if someone does need medical care in hospital, they are able to go back home sooner to a place that is safe and warm with the support they need to continue their recovery.”
Frances Griffin, a local Birmingham resident receiving support from the DAWS initiative, said: “The cost of heating my home has become so overwhelming that I am only able heat one room and because I suffer from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, the cold can be a serious health risk to me. During a home visit from a community nurse, I was introduced to the DAWS service.
“The team gave me practical help and put me in touch with people who could assist me. I received a heated blanket and thermal socks – small gestures that have made a big difference. I swear by the heated blanket; even my two cats fight over it! A Cadent engineer is also going to inspect my cooker to ensure it is safe as it is over 20 years old. It’s a fantastic service that has helped ensure the cold weather isn’t having a detrimental impact on my health.”
Phil Burrows, Head of Customer Vulnerability & Social Purpose at Cadent, said: “No-one should have to choose between their health and heating their home, but sadly many people are facing this situation up and down the country. This is why partnerships such as this are so important. The DAWS service not only supports Birmingham Community Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust in freeing up beds at a time when pressures are at their highest, but it helps keep people warm and healthy in their homes by providing financial assistance when they need it most.”