Homeowners urged to beat the freeze

Homeowners and private tenants are being urged to combat icy winters by claiming grants worth thousands to keep their homes warmer and more energy efficient.

Thanks to a partnership between Rochdale Council and the Government funded Warm Front scheme, over 2011 low income families, people with disabilities and the over 60s have successfully applied for £3 million in grants over the last year.

But according to Eaga, who manage the Warm Front programme on behalf of the Government, many more homes in the borough could benefit from a grant, but have yet to come forward to claim what they are entitled to.

Shida Bassiti from Eaga, said: "We're delighted that Warm Front has been able to improve the lives of so many residents in the Rochdale borough. But thousands more who could be warmer and better off have yet to apply.”

Warm Front teamed up with the Council to boost grant claims before this year’s big freeze by sending letters to over 3,400 low income residents highlighting the help available to keep homes warm and save money on fuel bills.

Rochdale Council’s cabinet member for housing, Councillor Doreen Brophy-Lee said: "Sub-zero temperatures and growing fuel bills over the last few weeks show just how important it is to take advantage of the help available to keep homes cosy whatever the weather throws at us. It’s not too late to come forward and I would urge anyone who thinks they may be eligible for Warm Front to apply. Don’t risk your health, or worse, in the winter because you live in a cold home."

The Warm Front scheme can provide a package of insulation and heating improvements up to the value of £3,500 to make homes warmer. Some homes that require oil central heating may receive a grant of up to £6,000.

People who are over the age of 60, in receipt of pension credit, council tax benefit, housing benefit, or income based job seekers allowance may qualify for the scheme.

Households with children and pregnant women with a MAT B1 certificate are also being encouraged to apply. You may also be eligible if you receive benefits with a disability element.

For more information, call the Warm Front helpline free on 0800 316 2805 (quoting reference MK939). A trained advisor will ask you a few simple questions to see whether you qualify.

Lines are open Monday to Friday 8am-6pm and 9am - 5pm on Saturdays.

If you are not in receipt of one of the qualifying benefits, Eaga can offer you a full benefit assessment to establish if you are or should be receiving any benefits that would qualify you for the Warm Front Grant. Contact the Benefit Entitlement Check team on freephone 0800 072 9006.

If you are not eligible for Warm Front, visit www.energysavingtrust.org.uk or call your local Energy Saving Trust Advice Centre on 0800 512012 for free and independent energy efficiency advice.