This week's cold weather saw dozens of older people flock to Sotheby Mews Day Centre on Tuesday 3 November for the launch of Islington Council's 'Be Warm, Be Well: Winter Warmth Guide'.
Hundreds of pensioners in Islington dread winter because they can't afford rising fuel prices and many face a dilemma of whether to heat or eat.
But help is at hand in the form of Islington Council's Winter Warmth scheme which includes information on how to cut your energy bills and how to stay healthy, active and safe.
Teaming up with experts at the Energy Savings Trust, NHS Islington, Age Concern and others, the council has developed a range of freebies, practical advice and support to help older people on fixed incomes get through the winter months.
Cllr Ursula Woolley, Executive Member for Health and Adult Social Care said:
"Older people use a higher proportion of their income on fuel than others and often live in less fuel-efficient homes.
"Our insulation grants, advice from the Council's Energy Doctor, and practical things like radiator reflectors, low energy light bulbs and good quality slippers will help more vulnerable older people stay warm and well this winter."
At Sotheby Mews, centre users took advantage of FREE reflector panels for radiators, a slipper exchange, walking stick MOT, low-energy light bulb giveaway and electric blanket testing.
The council's Winter Warmth scheme is the latest boost for older people in the borough and follows the
council tax discount and the campaigns to save the Freedom Pass and resist Post Office closures.
Last year's cold winter and soaring gas and electricity prices have highlighted the importance of the issue of tackling fuel poverty, saving energy use and saving carbon emissions.
ENDS
Notes to editors:
* Up to 40,000 people die due to cold weather related illness every year
* It's also important to eat well and stay active in winter to help your body cope with the cold weather
* For a free copy of the guide or for advice on keeping down energy bills call the Green Living Centre on 0800 953 1221.
Page Last Updated: 05 November 2009