An estimated 5 million Brits aged 55 and over could be risking their health by failing to plan ahead for a winter freeze according to recent research.  This is despite the fact that tens of thousands of older people in England and Wales died last winter simply because of the cold.

The research from the not-for-profit ‘Home Heat Helpline’ revealed that over half (51%) are cutting back on their heating in an effort to reduce their bills, and a similar number (47%) choose to heat only selected rooms for the same reason, leaving their houses inadequately heated. 

The Home Heat Helpline, along with The Royal British Legion and Carers UK are urging over-55 year olds to prepare for winter now by reviewing their home insulation to protect them against a big chill.

Duncan Sedgwick, Chief Executive of the Energy Retail Association which runs the Home Heat Helpline said: “It is worrying that so many older people are cutting back on their heating.  By planning now and getting homes insulated people can be better prepared.”

Worryingly two thirds of over-55 year olds questioned only started to think about heating their home in winter less than a month before the cold weather sets in, with over a third of these (35%) admitting to never pre-planning for winter at all, leaving them at risk if arctic conditions hit. This is despite the fact that 4 in 10 over-55 year olds worry that insufficient heating could impact negatively on their health and wellbeing. 

And although all of the over-55 year olds polled admitting they knew insulating their home could save them money on their heating bills, only half (52%) said they would consider insulating their home in preparation for winter. The Home Heat Helpline is therefore calling on all over-55s to think about insulation NOW so they have ample time to access both Government and supplier grants to get free insulation measures fitted in time for winter.

Bryan Clover, Head of Community Services, from The Royal British Legion which provides help and assistance for many elderly veterans and veterans with young families, said: “This research tallies with our own experience that heating costs are a very real worry for many of the 10.5 million veterans in the UK. We would encourage anyone who is worried to get in touch with Home Heat Helpline to see if they are eligible for help.”

Imelda Redmond, Chief Executive of Carers UK an organisation which represents carers of ill, frail or disabled friends and family said: “Carers UK have found that one in three carers are struggling to pay basic bills, including heating bills.  It is something that we get calls about on our helpline – especially as many are in debt. Getting specialist advice from the Home Heat helpline and sorting out how bills are paid will be a real bonus to carers."

The Home Heat Helpline research also found:

• Although rising fuel bills are a concern across the country, the over-55 year old age group is more likely than younger Brits under-55 years old to have to juggle their monthly income in order to pay their heating bills

• Nearly half of over-55 year olds rely on old fashioned thermal clothing and 3 in ten on hot water bottles to keep them warm in winter.

The Home Heat Helpline launched by the Energy Retail Association is on: 0800 33 66 99 

Advisors can help not only save money on heating bills, but could help you get insulation fitted free in time for the winter.

For more information visit the link below.

• Home Health Helpline (Opens a new window)