Our partners at Community Action Northumberland helped a family in Cramlington access support to make their home safer and warmer.
How we helped
Living in a home that’s regularly below 18 degrees can contribute to a range of health issues and be harmful to those living with certain health conditions. As old heating systems often struggle to keep a home at a consistent temperature and are expensive to run, it’s important that support is available to help those facing difficulties with their health and their finances.
The family’s situation
A family in Cramlington were finding it impossible to keep their bungalow warm or maintain a stable indoor temperature. This was a large cause of concern, as the children’s complex medical conditions require a consistently controlled room temperature to reduce risks to their health. Looking to change their situation, the family got in touch with us to find out how we could help.
How we helped
Our partners at Community Action Northumberland visited the family and identified that the property’s outdated electric heating system was the root of the issue, with it being unable to provide reliable or adequate heat.
The family was referred to the Fuel Poor Network Extension Scheme (FPNES). The scheme was able to provide a free gas connection, gas boiler and carbon monoxide detector.
The new heating system is far more energy‑efficient, meaning their heating bills have reduced considerably. This has eased financial pressure on the household, allowing them to focus on their children’s care rather than worrying about the cost of keeping the home at a medically safe temperature.
“Community Action Northumberland went above and beyond to provide support, doing everything within their power to help. Their communication was open, honest, and consistently reliable, and the service they delivered was truly invaluable.”
The ability to control the heating system remotely has also been invaluable. As they can take the children to needed medical appointments, and have the heating set to come on in time for it to be warm and safe for the children’s return. Saving them from having to heat the house the whole time that they are out.
The installation of the new heating system has significantly improved the family’s overall quality of life. Providing much needed peace of mind around the health and wellbeing of their two children.
Is your wellbeing affected by rising energy costs?
Our advisors are available to talk from 9am to 5pm – Monday to Friday on freephone 0808 175 9345, or request a call or email from one of our advisors.
