11/02/2010

Local householders have more cash in their pocket, thanks to a warmer homes scheme.

Over half of householders involved in the Warm Homes Scheme were found to be entitled to more benefits or tax credits.

Those signed up to the Warm Homes Scheme automatically undergo a Benefit Maximisation Check, to establish if they are receiving the correct amount of state benefits.

On average, these benefit checks have resulted in an additional weekly income of £33.11, or just over £1,700 per year.

The Scheme, which is funded by the Department for Social Development (DSD) and administered by the Housing Executive, is managed by Bryson Charitable Group across 13 council areas across Northern Ireland including the North Down area.

To date 1,456 benefit checks have been carried out for both applicants of the scheme and those enquiring about their eligibility to participate in it.

This has resulted in over 700 people discovering they are entitled to an additional income and a total of 76 people have found they are entitled to a benefit which qualifies them to avail of the Warm Homes Scheme.

The Warm Homes Scheme provides eligible clients with a range of insulation and heating measures along with a free benefit entitlement and maximisation check and tailored energy advice to help save householders money.

“We are delighted that the Warm Homes Scheme has assisted many people on low incomes who need help to improve the energy efficiency of their homes,” says Nigel Brady, Director of Energy with Bryson.

“The Scheme continues to target householders in receipt of a specified qualifying benefit who have been identified as being at risk of fuel poverty, and provides a range of insulation and heating measures to eligible clients as well as a free benefit entitlement check.

“In light of the economic downturn and extremely cold and enduring winter across the country, the scheme is particularly relevant as it provides assistance to eligible householders in improving the energy efficiency of their homes and subsequently reducing fuel costs.”

Since Bryson’s involvement with the Scheme commenced in July 2009, it has helped administer support to almost 1,300 householders and has achieved an average energy saving in these households of almost 25%, surpassing the Department for Social Development’s target of 15%.

Welcoming the news of Bryson’s achievements, North Down MLA Alex Easton commented: “The harsh winter coupled with the economic downturn, has put extra pressure on householders in the North Down area and many have struggled with their increased heating bills.

“I wish to commend the service and support that has been provided to the people of North Down and would encourage all of my constituents to avail of the Warm Homes Scheme if they are eligible.”

To find out more about the Scheme, please visit www.warm-homes.com or telephone 0800 988 0559

County Down Spectator 11-Feb-2010