Affordable warmth
Affordable warmth means being able to keep your home warm without paying more than you can afford.
You may be in fuel poverty if you have a low income and cannot heat your home at a reasonable cost.
What causes fuel poverty
Fuel poverty is usually caused by a mix of:
- poor energy efficiency
- low household income
- high energy costs
How a cold home can affect you
Living in a cold home can affect your health and wellbeing.
It can make some health conditions worse, including:
- breathing conditions
- heart and circulation conditions
- mobility problems
- mental health problems
A cold home can also make people feel isolated. Some people may avoid inviting others to their home because it is cold.
Children may also find it harder to concentrate on homework if the household needs to stay in one heated room.
What we are doing to help
We have worked with partners for several years to help reduce fuel poverty in Swindon.
The Swindon Affordable Warmth Strategy explains:
- fuel poverty nationally
- fuel poverty in Swindon
- how local organisations are working together to reduce fuel poverty
Read the Swindon affordable warmth strategy 2022 to 2025 (PDF)
Get help with fuel poverty
You can find help and advice on our home energy efficiency pages.
You can also contact:
David Miles
Public Health Practitioner, Affordable Warmth
Telephone: 01793 463679
Email: dmiles3@swindon.gov.uk