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12/10/2011
Energy prices have risen by a whopping 21% over the last year – and 28 per cent of households are now struggling to pay their bills according to a new survey by uSwitch. And that's hardly surprising given that the cheapest household energy deal now costs more than £1,000 per year.
There's no easy solution for low income families. But energy efficiency measures can help bring those bills down – and that's what our Green Doctors have been aiming to do in Winsford over the last year.
They offer a free service to local residents which begins with a home visit and examination of the property. The Doctors give helpful advice about energy use and make practical adaptations such as fitting energy efficient light bulbs, powerdown equipment, draft excluders and radiator reflector panels. It's about changing behaviour and helping people understand how they can be better in control of their energy use. Each visit takes about an hour and the Doctors make return visits to some households to check the service has made a difference.
The Doctors have also fitted water saving devices in cisterns and more water efficient shower heads. This helps those with water meters – which are now increasingly common. The Doctors also signpost those in need to other services such as fire safety checks, and income maximisation, making the most of their visit to the home.
Our Green Doctors were unemployed before joining the team so they've benefited personally too. The key achievements so far are:
Residents have been full of praise for the help offered.
“It was quite eye opening that I could save money by just having this foil behind my radiators.” said resident Susan McGurty, “I am currently saving around £5 a week which is great!”
‘My gas and electricity is now £68 a quarter, saving me £20 every quarter’ comments resident Freda Wady.
Funding for the initiative comes from Weaver Vale Housing Trust, Muir Group Housing, Cheshire West and Chester Council, Winsford Town Council, Future Jobs Fund, 2nd Homes taxation fund and our own funds.
We're hoping to expand our Green Doctor service to other areas of Cheshire soon.
