This in from the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Community Foundation, in their own words. Ed
The ‘Surviving Winter’ campaign was officially launched this week by The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Community Foundation to raise funds to support vulnerable older people during the winter months.
Those who are able to, are being asked to donate their Winter Fuel Allowance when it arrives this winter or to make a contribution to the campaign to help those at risk.
Launched by Dickie Davies
The Campaign has been launched by former TV presenter Dickie Davies who has pledged his support for the second consecutive year, he said “As the UK gets its first wintry blast and energy providers announce price increases in excess of 10%, now more than ever our elderly will be at risk of death during the winter ahead.”
He continued “Last year we managed to raise over £20,000 in funds, across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, to support vulnerable people in our communities and this money was quickly distributed to help those in need, paying for their fuel bills, providing additional heaters and even buying warm cosy slippers.”
Dickie added “Supporting this appeal is a good turn that will make a difference to older people living in fuel poverty in our local communities.”
25,700 preventable winter deaths last year
Last winter there was an estimated 25,700 preventable winter deaths across England and Wales, and with fuels bills on the rise and an estimated seven million households now living in fuel poverty it is now more crucial than ever to provide help for vulnerable and older people during the winter months.
Toni Shaw, CEO at HIWCF explained, “This is the generation that survived the war, survived rationing in the 50’s and have gone without for their families, and now a combination of poor living conditions, bad diet, and circulatory or respiratory diseases, which are worsened by the cold, makes it difficult for many of them to survive the winter.”
She continued “Those who can afford to help us support the most vulnerable in our communities, including local businesses, are being asked to contribute.” Toni added “All the money raised from the “Surviving Winter” campaign will be used to directly benefit older and vulnerable people living in fuel poverty in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. Working in partnership with the Citizens Advice Bureau we will ensure the money reaches those who need it most.
Support the campaign
HIWCF is encouraging people and businesses across the County to support this Campaign, and is aiming to raise £25,000 – every penny donated will be distributed to support the vulnerable and older people living in our community.
Winter fuel payments are allocated any time from November onwards, leading up to Christmas 2012. If you would like to find out more about the campaign, view our Surviving Winter video or make a donation please visit www.hantscf.org.uk
