According to the latest data, over 14,000 households in Buckinghamshire are living in fuel poverty. However, with the current energy crisis, there will be a devastating impact on many more local families this winter.
The Heart of Bucks Winter Warmth campaign is being supported by Buckinghamshire resident Sir David Jason and helps vulnerable people across Buckinghamshire who struggle to keep warm in the cold months. In addition to granting money towards heating bills, donated funds could also be spent on warm winter clothing, supplies for homeless people such as sleeping bags, and items many people take for granted, such as a hot water bottle or a kettle.
Any donation, however small, can have a big impact on a struggling person or family this winter. The campaign also encourages those who receive the Winter Fuel Payment from the government, but are able to comfortably pay their bills, to think about donating it to help vulnerable people.
Sir David said:
“I am supporting the Winter Warmth campaign this year as I know it has been a particularly difficult year for those people who are feeling vulnerable and financially worried. Although many people qualify for the Winter Fuel Payment, not everyone needs it in the true sense of the word. Let’s try and direct the payments to those less fortunate or for those who have suddenly found that their circumstances have changed. Let’s spread a little warmth where we can.”
Liz Barter, Heart of Bucks Ambassador for Isolation and Disadvantage said:
“In winter, the pressure of surviving on low wages or benefits are easily more than doubled. If your budget doesn’t stretch to new boots or a good coat, then making journeys by public transport and on foot can quickly become really grim. Older cars, that are essential for work and school runs, play up more than usual. Heating bills increase, and staying well just becomes a bigger challenge. Offering people some respite from the acuity of the winter pressure is so important, and will hopefully prevent more people sliding further into the trap of poverty.”
If you are able to help, you can donate your winter fuel payment, or whatever you can afford, online at www.totalgiving.co.uk/appeal/winterwarmth.
One of the great benefits of donating such a payment to a charity is that, if you are a taxpayer, you can gift aid your donation and instantly increase the value by 25%.
You can also donate by sending a cheque made payable to ‘Heart of Bucks’ to: Heart of Bucks Winter Warmth, New Road, Weston Turville, Aylesbury, Bucks, HP22 5QT.
