Act now to Beat the Cold this winter

The middle of a summer heatwave might seem like a strange time to launch a scheme aimed at helping people stay warm and healthy this winter - but according to the experts it's actually perfect timing!

Staffordshire Moorlands District Council has launched its affordable warmth project and has engaged Beat the Cold to deliver free and impartial energy advice to local residents.

Councillor Mike Bowen, cabinet member for communities and housing at the Council, said: "Winter might seem like a long way away at the moment, especially given the warm sunny days were currently experiencing, but this is exactly the right time to for us to launch our affordable warmth plan to ensure you'll stay warm this winter.

"It's no good waiting until weather turns colder before realising that your boiler is broken or that the cost of heating your home means you have to make hard choices about how often you turn your heating on because, by then, it's too late.

"That's why we're launching our partnership with Beat the Cold now. They are experts in providing advice and helping people access assistance to reduce their fuel bills and keep their homes warm and we're delighted to be able to bring this service to our residents across the Moorlands."

Beat the Cold can offer advice on:

Paying for fuel, finding the best tariff and switching supplier

Improving energy efficiency and using your heating system in the best way

Fuel debt

Associated topics such as free or low-cost insulation and alternatives like solar solutions and heat pumps

Martin Peake, Charity Development Manager at Beat the Cold, said: "No one wants to pay more for their household fuel than they need to and big bills can leave people with tough decisions to make about their budgets.

"The good news is, it doesn't have to be like that. We can help with a range of issues to make sure people stay warm and healthy when the weather gets colder so get in touch now to see if we can support you."

Call Beat the Cold on 01782 683813 or email enquiries@beatcold.org.uk for more information.