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ESCC winter home check service press release: 21 February 2013
A cold spell is expected over the new few days with a 90% probability of icy weather until Sunday, 24 February, so it is important to make sure vulnerable people are kept warm and well.
The Winter Home Check Service is still available to help vulnerable people, such as the elderly or disabled, or families with children and on a low income.
The Service includes:
- A full assessment of the home to identify how to keep it warm
- Small preventative works such as reducing drafts, improving insulation, clearing gutters, lagging pipes and clearing chimneys
- Providing emergency temporary heating
Cllr Keith Glazier, Lead Member responsible for Public Health at East Sussex County Council, said:
"Even though the sun may shine every now and then, it is still very cold and will continue to be over the next few days. People may think winter is behind them, but they should use this service if it is needed. Also, I would encourage people to check on older neighbours or relatives, to make sure they are safe, warm and well."
If you would like more information, or want to refer anyone for help, please contact: Social Care Direct by phone: 0345 60 80 191 or email: socialcaredirect@eastsussex.gov.uk
The County Council is also providing more help and information about being prepared for the possibility of severe weather. Follow the County Council on twitter at @EastSussexCC and @esccroads, where it is tweeting on winter subjects, using the hashtag #ESwinter.
You can also follow the County Council's winter blog at www.eastsussex.gov.uk/winterblog and follow them on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/eastsussexcc
To find out whether day-care centres, libraries or other council services are affected by winter weather and to find out which roads are on the County Council's gritting routes visit: www.eastsussex.gov.uk
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Help available
Winter Home Check Service
The Winter Home Check Service includes full assessment of the home to identify how to keep it warm, and can provide help with small works such as reducing draughts, improving insulation, clearing gutters, lagging pipes, clearing chimneys, providing additional temporary heating. To find out if you qualify for this service contact Social Care Direct by telephone on 0345 60 80 191 or email: socialcaredirect@eastsussex.gov.uk
Warm Front
Warm Front provides energy efficiency advice and a package of insulation and heating improvements tailored to the property up to a value of £3,500. Homes needing oil or LPG central heating may receive a grant of up to £6,000. The scheme is designed for people who own their own home or rent from a private landlord, and are on certain benefits. For more information telephone Warm Front on 0800 316 6011 or apply online at www.warmfront.co.uk
Local Authority schemes
District and Borough Councils across East Sussex may be able to help with costs for insulation or boiler repairs, contact the relevant council for information:
- Eastbourne: Private Sector Housing – 01323 415394
- Hastings: Housing Renewal – 01424 451356
- Lewes: Private Sector Housing – 01273 484366
- Rother: Private Sector Housing – 01424 787565
- Wealden: Downs Insulation – 01444 460119
Citizen Advice 1066
Citizens Advice 1066 can give advice and support to deal with debt, energy bills, benefit claims, and entitlements.
Telephone 01424 721420 or visit www.citizensadvice.org.uk for further information.
AGE Concern
Information, advice and support relating to welfare benefits, consumer issues, housing, health matters, eligibility for grants and benefits to help keep you and your home warmer. Can also help with completing application forms for Attendance Allowance, Disability Living Allowance and Carers Allowance. Telephone 01323 638474.
AGE Concern Eastbourne also provide a free Contractor Call service for householders matching a caller's requirements to the most suitable contractor for their job - telephone 01323 724433
Age UK East Sussex
Information, advice and support relating to welfare benefits, consumer issues, housing, health matters, eligibility for grants and benefits to help keep you and your home warmer. Can also help with completing application forms for Attendance Allowance, Disability Living Allowance and Carers Allowance. Telephone 01273 476704 or 01424 426162
