KYP starts to tackle fuel poverty in Rochdale

Over 300 households within Rochdale are set to receive individual energy saving advice and support as part of a Scottish Power Energy People Trust funded Fuel Katao, Paisay Bachao (Reduce Fuel, Save Money) project to help improve the:

• Effective use of their energy and thereby reduce fuel costs 
• Take-up of the eligible welfare benefits
• Take-up energy efficiency measures for their homes

Kashmir Youth Project (KYP) is working in partnership with Rochdale Council and Scottish Power Energy People Trust to help local residents save money (through better/cheaper use of energy and more energy efficient homes) and to improve the take-up of eligible benefits and support for households within the Central and Milkstone & Deeplish wards.

The support offered includes suggestions to cut energy bills, tariff switching advice and available energy related benefits. Residents also have the option to access wider support available from Energy Suppliers, Rochdale MBC and government schemes to install small, energy saving measures such as draught proofing, cavity wall insulation and power saving plugs.

A household is in fuel poverty if they spend 10% or more of their income on fuel to keep their home warm. Living in a cold home can not only increase the likelihood of ill health but also reduce life chances. 

Mrs Akhtar, of Oswald Street, said: “With gas and electricity prices rising so frequently I’m glad that KYP has helped me access grants and energy efficiency measures worth over £1200. This is just fantastic.” 

Mr Hussain, of Entwistle Road, said: “It is amazing that I can save so much money by making only small changes in my lifestyle.”

Mrs Begum, of Gower Street, said: “I had no idea that so many government schemes and discounts exist to help reduce fuel costs, even in these difficult economic times.”