News OnTheWight always welcomes a Letter to the Editor to share with our readers – unsurprisingly they don’t always reflect the views of this publication. If you have something you’d like to share, get in touch and of course, your considered comments are welcome below.
This from Rachel McKernan, CEO, Age UK Isle of Wight
Age UK Isle of Wight are extremely concerned that soaring energy prices and the onset of freezing temperatures could force many older people on the Isle of Wight to ration their heating or cut back on hot meals this winter.
All independent Age UK’s are uniting to support our national The Cost of Cold campaign, we are urging the Government to help those who are most in need over the coming months.
What will help
Cutting the VAT rate on energy bills and providing a one-off £500 payment to all those eligible for Cold Weather Payments would make a huge difference to many of the poorest households.
Write to Bob Seely
We’re also asking people to support our campaign by writing to our local MP to highlight how much rising energy bills could hurt older people this winter.
More information can be found on the Website.
1.1 million older households in fuel poverty
With over 1.1 million older households in the UK likely to be in fuel poverty by spring, it is vital that the Government takes urgent action to help older people stay warm and well all year round.
We’re here for you
I would also like to take this opportunity to remind our older residents that if you are in need of any support, Age UK Isle of Wight are here, offering free, impartial Information and Advice, Welfare benefits advice and Winter support packages. Call (01983) 525282 or visit the Website.
Image: mlazarevski under CC BY 2.0
