As winter tightens its grip, the warmth of our homes becomes not just a comfort, but a necessity. Yet for too many in our communities, this basic necessity remains out of reach due to the crippling effects of fuel poverty. In fact, It is projected that in 2023, fuel poverty will increase to 14.4 per cent (3.53 million) with the average fuel poverty gap rising by 31 per cent in real terms to £443 (in 2022 prices). An estimated 53.5 per cent of all low-income households are projected to live in a property with a fuel poverty energy efficiency rating (FPEER) of band C or better.
At Gas Call Services, in partnership with National Energy Action (NEA), we are not standing idly by. We’re taking action, and here’s why it’s more important now than ever.
How many homes are in fuel poverty?
The latest figures paint a chilling picture of fuel poverty in England. As of 2022, an estimated 13.4% of households — equating to 3.26 million — are wrestling with the cold embrace of inadequate heating due to financial constraints. The aggregate fuel poverty gap has surged to a staggering £1.10 billion, up by 37% since the previous year.
Despite energy efficiency improvements, the ever-escalating energy prices have nullified progress, trapping over half of low-income households in homes that fall short of the 2030 fuel poverty target.
Providing help where it’s needed
In response to these sobering statistics, Gas Call Services and NEA have launched a bold initiative designed to combat this issue head-on.
National Energy Action (NEA) is a charity that stands at the forefront of the fight against fuel poverty, campaigning tirelessly for a future where everyone in our nation can afford to stay warm.
Our mission? To install free combination boilers in the homes of the most vulnerable through an easy-to-access questionnaire that will provide an instant answer on the applicant’s eligibility.
You can find out more about the NEA’s work here: https://www.nea.org.uk/
