The Cadent Foundation has been working with charities and partners since 2019. Our aim is to help households find sustainable solutions to fuel poverty and ensure people are safe and warm in their homes.
By working with charitable organisations we strive to help households improve their financial wellbeing and become more energy efficient through advice, support and practical measures.
Our sector leading live impact dashboard shows in real time how our key strategic partnerships are helping to tackle fuel poverty. The data can be filtered to demonstrate the positive difference being made collectively and by individual projects for different locations and demographic groups.
Since 2019, the Cadent Foundation has provided a number of grants to help people build their financial wellbeing and improve the energy efficiency of their home.
Here are some of the key projects our grants have supported
The Stay Warm, Stay Well programme will support 14,500 households in communities across England and provide much needed help for households who are struggling with their energy bills. Its Groundwork Green Doctors – energy efficiency advisors – visit homes and offer practical guidance on energy saving, behaviour change tips and referrals to other local support services, including debt advice and food banks.
In addition to the Green Doctor support, the programme is also funding an initiative to support the creation of new energy advisors, via a 12-month traineeship opportunity, through the Green Doctor Academy. This scheme aims to create more accessible pathways into work, in particular for those who are unemployed or economically inactive, people with disabilities or individuals from an ethnically diverse background.
The programme is part of a new phase in Groundwork’s partnership with the Cadent Foundation, which has so far invested £3m in funding over 10,000 Green Doctor consultations carried out between 2020-23 across England.
Graham Duxbury, Groundwork’s UK Chief Executive, said: “This new funding from the Cadent Foundation couldn’t be coming at a more important time. Feedback from our Green Doctors is that they’re visiting an increasing number of people who are taking drastic measures to make ends meet – from skipping meals to living in permanently cold, damp homes – with many falling into debt. We’re also seeing more working people who are ineligible for government support but who still need advice on how to reduce their bills. We’re delighted that the Cadent Foundation is able to provide strategic, multi-year support for our Green Doctors, which will help us expand our service to more people and ensure we have a workforce able to meet growing demand.”
Julia Dwyer, Director of the Cadent Foundation, said: “The impact from our initial partnership which began in 2020, has been incredible to witness, particularly as the work of energy advisors has been vital throughout the cost-of-living crisis. We’ve learnt a lot throughout the first phase, which supported more than 10,000 households, but being able to fund the training of local people, to advise and guide their own communities on energy efficiency and money management, is really powerful. We truly believe that a solid knowledge of how to optimise the energy efficiency of a home, is the key to alleviating fuel poverty in the long-term and the next stage in our partnership will allow us to expand the programme even further, increasing our involvement and doubling the amount of funding to help even more families.”
Stay Warm, Stay Well will provide immediate need for support for households during the cost-of-living and continued energy crisis. Insight from a recent Groundwork survey, found that 94 per cent of Green Doctors reported supporting households that did not use their central heating at all, with 85 per cent saying they had worked with people cutting back on food or only eating cold meals.
One Green Doctor commented: “We’re seeing people choosing between which bills to pay and whether to eat meals, and many don’t even consider putting on the heating. It’s heartbreaking and infuriating. The energy crisis is far from over – there are so many people and families in urgent need of help.”
In addition to the new programme, Groundwork has developed a section of its website, Get Energy Help, to offer clear, simple advice on different ways to save energy, stay warm and reduce energy bills, including resources on minimising heat loss or understanding meters.
Find out more about Stay Warm, Stay Well
The Cadent Foundation £2 million Winter Support Fund is supporting people affected by fuel poverty by providing emergency financial relief, in the form of food and fuel vouchers and cooking and heating appliances, distributed by its charitable partners.
The vouchers and home appliances will be available to eligible individuals from October to March and each household can receive up to two vouchers.
If you are struggling with your bills this winter, reach out to one of our partners listed below to receive energy efficiency advice and support.
North West:
West Mids:
East Mids:
East of England:
North London:
Through a pilot, Citizens Advice were able to support clients through 8 local offices and have since identified areas where more help is needed. With the additional funding they have increased their advice to 17 offices, extending their reach to help clients in the most deprived areas with dedicated energy efficiency and income maximisation support.
They support clients with multiple, complex issues and identified that a dedicated, specialist energy caseworker would more effectively resolve their issues. A more holistic 1:1 advice service will help create confidence and reduced anxiety with energy related issues going forward, offering a more valuable, long term solution.
The funding will offer a lifeline to many vulnerable people with financial gains, that support physical and mental wellbeing.
The partnership will offer best practice and knowledge sharing from caseworkers that offers key insights to support those in the most vulnerable situations.
Julia Dwyer, Director of the Cadent Foundation, said: “Expanding the reach of this project allows for more specialist energy caseworkers to not only resolve complex issues more effectively, but also build confidence and reduce anxiety for those struggling with energy costs. This project will continue to provide life changing support, offering tangible financial gains while supporting physical and mental well-being. Together, we’re creating long-term solutions and sharing vital knowledge to better support our most vulnerable households.”
Daniel Gill, Utilities Partnerships Manager at Citizens Advice, said: “We are delighted the Cadent Foundation has chosen to support our work in helping people at the sharp end of the cost-of-living crisis. “Projects like this, where dedicated energy caseworkers can support households to access financial assistance are needed now more than ever before. Through this service, we’ll gain valuable insight into how to tackle fuel poverty for the most affected households.
“It also means we’ll be able to provide people with information on how to make their homes more energy efficient in the long-term, improving their overall quality of life.”
For more information visit the Citizen's Advice service
The Cadent Foundation has announced that it will strengthen its efforts to address the interconnected issues of cold homes, low incomes and poor health, after releasing its 2024 Impact Report.
The announcement comes on the back of a record-breaking year for the Foundation, in which it more than tripled the amount of people it supported through funding vital fuel poverty programmes. Over the past year, over £4.2m worth of grants and funding have been distributed to charity partners, resulting in just under 38,000 people receiving support with advice and energy measures.
Additionally, support provided from Cadent Foundation enabled £1.9m cost savings for those living in the most vulnerable communities through energy efficiency measures and advice – a 71 per cent uplift from the previous year. Over 9,500 homes became more efficient (a 64% uplift), while financial gains of £7.7m (up 38%) were also achieved through income maximisation advice.
Its recent Winter Support Fund, which provides £2m worth of winter aid for those feeling the biggest effects of cold weather, supported over 34,000 alone, with almost £900,000 worth of energy and food vouchers distributed to households living in fuel poverty. Despite this record-breaking year, Cadent Foundation will continue its work in supporting people living in fuel poverty.
Ranjit Blythe, Managing Director of Cadent Foundation, said: “As we reflect on another year of milestone achievements, we are very proud to have supported our incredible charity partners, who support households across the UK living in fuel poverty. However, our work is not complete.
“We are now three years into the cost-of-living challenge, yet the struggles facing millions of people don’t appear to be easing. With changes to the winter fuel allowance and benefits support coming into effect, we may yet see even more people at risk of falling into fuel poverty.”
Some of Cadent Foundation’s key projects for 2024 included:
Ranjit Blythe added: “As we look ahead to 2025, we will strengthen our focus on fuel poverty, looking to scale our efforts and exploring innovative partnerships which we know are critical to combatting fuel poverty. We will be working with charity partners to expand some of our successful initiatives, while also looking to develop new sustainable solutions that will make the most difference to those who need it most.
“Through the development of long-term and sustainable initiatives, coupled with strong collaboration across business, charity and government, I’m confident we will continue making a positive impact for an issue that impacts those most vulnerable within our society.”
Cadent Foundation has been funded by Cadent, the UK’s largest gas distribution network, since 2019. Cadent’s investors continue to commit beyond their regulatory obligations, providing one per cent of the company’s post-tax profits to the Foundation. So far, Cadent Foundation has awarded over £25 million in grants since launching.
A pilot housing partnership in Nottingham has enabled 77 homes to achieve annual combined carbon savings of 19.41 tonnes per year, thanks to a combination of energy efficiency advice and the installation of at least one carbon-reducing measure.
The Green Meadows project led by fuel poverty charity, Nottingham Energy Partnership (NEP), was funded by a £100,000 grant from Cadent Foundation with the aim to show what an average budget of up to £1,000 could achieve to improve the energy efficiency of a property. It targeted residents in The Meadows, where an average of 19.3 per cent of households are living in fuel poverty – some of the highest rates in England.
Each property within the pilot received energy advice and a future fit home energy plan to identify the recommended improvements. Along with a free consultation with local contractors, each property received funding for one or more recommended measure to either reduce carbon emissions or improve ventilation. Measures included loft insulation top-ups, LED lighting installations, draught proofing, double glazing, underfloor insulation, extractor fan installation and the introduction of thermostatic radiator valves. Overall, after implementing the measures from the project, an estimated six per cent reduction in carbon emissions was achieved across the 77 properties. The most significant impact was seen in a home that installed LED lighting, optimised their boiler and replaced their doors and window frames.
The most successful combinations that have been installed for an average of £1,000 include:
Additionally, 66 of the properties received boiler optimisation advice. As a result, annual energy use across the properties is expected to reduce by almost 10 per cent.
Participating residents were also signposted to other funding streams, such as those from the local authority, offered training to identify which measures could be completed themselves, and were shown how to reduce the flow rate temperature on their boiler to save on their heating bills
The partnership also saw NEP staff members and relevant partners receive energy efficiency training, to ensure the legacy of the project continues post-completion.
Darren Barker, Contract and Home Improvement Manager at NEP, said: “This has been a very successful partnership. It has allowed us to help people improve the energy performance of their homes with small measures to keep their property warmer, while reducing reliance on using heating. The Future Fit home energy assessments have also provided the knowledge and guidance to allow the homeowners to kickstart their retrofit projects.”
Julia Dwyer, Director of Cadent Foundation, said: “When it comes to reducing both carbon and bills, this initiative has served as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved with a relatively modest budget. The partnership with NEP has been a crucial focus for Cadent Foundation, as we explore how homes across the country can best prepare themselves for the energy transition. It has helped us understand the most cost-effective measures that have the biggest impact, which will be vital as we look towards the future.
“However, it’s clear that for many residents living in fuel poverty, retrofitting properties appropriately will take a long time, with other pressures taking precedence. There is a significant cost associated with retrofitting, and so long-term planning to make this attainable for all households is crucial. Our partnership with NEP shows that small measures can make a big impact. Now the industry must collaborate to make this available to all properties.”
Thousands of UK households living in vulnerable situations will now be able to access essential supplies to help them stay warm during the colder months, thanks to the launch of the Cadent Foundation’s annual Winter Warmer Campaign. Working with community action charity partner, Groundwork, the Cadent Foundation will be distributing close to 5,000 winter packs up until March.
The packs are distributed as an emergency intervention to those most in need and are available across Cadent’s network. Designed to keep households warm during the colder months, the packs include home essentials such as hot water bottles, gloves, scarves, hats and blankets. Groundwork will be distributing by the packs from their local community hubs as well as via partnerships with food banks and other support services.
Now in its fifth year, the Winter Warmer Campaign has helped deliver essential support to approximately 20,000 people across the UK, with the Cadent Foundation donating over £800,000 worth of essential items.
This year’s launch follows a series of well-reported challenges facing millions of people across the UK. In September, the government announced significant changes to the Winter Fuel Allowance, reducing eligibility for the funding. Additionally, an estimated 400,000 UK households were thought to have plunged into fuel poverty following rising energy bills in October, according to the National Energy Action charity.
Julia Dwyer, Director at the Cadent Foundation, said: “The last 12 months have seen fuel poverty continue to dominate headlines across the UK. Too many households are choosing not to turn on their heating in fear of how much it will impact their winter fuel bills, making schemes like our Winter Warmer Campaign more important than ever. Our packs have been designed to offer a little immediate respite for those most in need of extra warmth this winter, and we remain committed to working with our charity partners in finding ways to support those living in vulnerable situations.”
Graham Duxbury, Groundwork’s UK Chief Executive, said: “For too many people the onset of winter is a frightening time – not knowing how they’re going to make ends meet. For some, cold temperatures bring not just financial worries but serious health risks. Our Green Doctors meet people in vulnerable situations every day, so being able to provide some immediate protection while also helping people reduce their bills in the longer term is hugely valuable.”
The winter warmer packs are distributed by Groundwork’s Green Doctor programme, which offers free, impartial advice and practical measures to help individuals take control of their bills, save energy where possible in their home, and access other services and initiatives available.
The Cadent Foundation is funded by local gas network Cadent and has been established to help households find sustainable solutions to fuel poverty and ensure people are safe and warm in their homes. More information can be found at www.cadentfoundation.com
For more information on Groundwork’s Green Doctor programme, together with tips and advice on keeping your home warm this winter, visit: www.groundwork.org.uk/getenergyhelp/
ENDS
Photo Caption: Winter Warmer packs now available across Cadent’s Network.
About the Cadent Foundation
The Cadent Foundation was established in July 2019 with Cadent committing 1 per cent of annual post tax profits each year to the Foundation. Our aim is to help households find sustainable solutions to fuel poverty and ensure people are safe and warm in their homes. We work with charitable organisations to help households improve their financial wellbeing and become more energy efficient through advice, support and practical measures.
The funds of the Cadent Foundation are administered by Charities Trust (Charity Registration No: 327489) who will manage the grant giving and ensure that all grants donated by the Cadent Foundation are only used to further charitable purposes for the public benefit.
About Groundwork
Groundwork is a federation of charities with a collective mission to take practical action to create a fair and green future in which people, places, and nature thrive. We support communities and businesses to build capacity and resilience in order to tackle hardship, achieve a just transition to net-zero and help nature recover in a way that reduces inequality and leads to healthier, happier lives for all: www.groundwork.org.uk
For more information, please contact:
Nick Whittaker
Corporate PR Specialist, Cadent
0797 978 9203
[email protected]
The Cadent Foundation has today announced the injection of a two million pound ‘emergency’ Support Fund to help people living in fuel poverty this winter. With the cost-of-living crisis far from over and new figures revealing that almost 60 per cent of UK adults feel more anxious about what their energy bills will be this winter, compared to last, the fund will provide vital energy and food support to people living in the most vulnerable situations.
With over six million people living in fuel poverty across the UK, the Winter Support Fund is designed to allow charity partners – already offering energy and money guidance across vulnerable communities – rapid access to additional financial resources, helping to make an immediate impact for people needing extra support. This is the second time the fund has been created and following the recent Winter Fuel Allowance changes for pensioners, coupled with the price cap increase, the Cadent Foundation felt it was important to once again offer charity partners additional help, with many frontline charity workers reporting that the situation for thousands, remains desperate.
Ranjit Blythe, Managing Director of the Cadent Foundation, said: “It’s a mistake for anyone to think that the cost-of-living crisis is over and we’ve seen, first-hand, through all of our projects, the impact of fuel poverty on the most vulnerable. With the recent price cap changes and removal of the Winter Fuel Allowance for many pensioners, we’re worried that those who may have just about managed last year, will now be tipped into fuel poverty.”
With research also revealing that almost 70 per cent of UK adults feel worried about what their energy bills will be this winter and over 50 per cent trying to prepare for higher bills now, the Cadent Foundation is expecting to reach thousands of people with its additional support.
Ranjit continued: “For us, last years’ fund allowed us to test and learn and really understand what help people needed quickly but this year, while fuel poverty doesn’t discriminate on age, we do expect to target a larger share of our fund towards elderly people needing more of a helping hand.”
How to access the support:
The Winter Support Fund will be distributed through Cadent Foundation’s current charity partners, including Citizens Advice and Groundwork. Those supported by the charities, with energy efficiency, through Groundwork’s Green Doctors, and money management guidance, will be eligible.
The funding boost will be available between October and March and has the potential to support thousands of homes across the country in areas of high deprivation. Each household can receive up to two vouchers, with the option of also having access to essential heating and cooking appliances.
Items available include:
Graham Duxbury, Groundwork’s UK Chief Executive, added: “Our Green Doctor energy advisers work all year round to help those most vulnerable to the devastating impacts of cold, damp homes, and we have seen no let-up in demand. Changes to the Winter Fuel Allowance will cause additional hardship and distress. This funding boost from the Cadent Foundation is enormously welcome and will give our Green Doctors the opportunity to offer immediate support to families who really need our help this winter.”
ENDS
Providing in-home energy efficiency support for vulnerable people living in rural areas across Cumbria has been made easier, following a donation of a van from the Cadent Foundation to support the delivery of Green Doctor services.
Community charity Groundwork, has around 200 Green Doctors - energy efficiency advisors across the UK, delivering in-home advice and income maximisation support to vulnerable communities. The van, which equates to a £12,500 saving in transport costs, will enable Green Doctors to reach people in vulnerable situations quicker and easier - allowing them to transport the tools and materials they need to assess the levels of support required and install energy saving measures quickly into a home.
The Groundwork team operating across Cumbria supports 300 residents each year, delivering personalised advice to help individuals affected by cost-of-living and fuel poverty challenges to stay safe and warm in their homes.
Victoria Myers, a Green Doctor Project Manager working across Cumbria , commented: “We are seeing more and more people struggling to pay their bills and put food on the table and with winter looming, it will only get more challenging for millions of people. The van will be vital in helping us to reach even more people, particularly those in the more isolated areas of our region who need our support.”
Ranjit Blythe, Managing Director of the Cadent Foundation, added: “With 21 per cent of people in the UK living in poverty after housing costs, the need for improved home efficiency is ever greater. Our long-standing partnership with Groundwork has already funded 10,000 Green Doctor consultations for people living in the most vulnerable situations - resulting in the installation of over 35,000 energy saving measures into homes.
“This van donation is a gift to say thank you for all the work that Green Doctors have delivered to better the lives of the people in their communities - we hope the van makes it easier for them to reach those most in need for many years to come.”
Earlier this year, the Cadent Foundation and Groundwork announced their partnership extension with a new £6 million grant which will fund 'Stay Warm, Stay Well'. The programme will enable Green Doctors - expert advisors, to deliver energy efficiency and financial advice to people impacted by fuel poverty. Over the three-year project, 14,500 consultations will take place in regions across England, with a particular focus on vulnerable households.
Find out more about Stay Warm, Stay Well here: https://www.groundwork.org.uk/stay-warm-stay-well
Additional support:
Get Energy Help: https://www.groundwork.org.uk/getenergyhelp
Request a free Green Doctor consultation: https://www.groundwork.org.uk/stay-warm-stay-well/
ENDS
Photo Caption: Georgia Courtney from the Cadent Foundation with Andy Deacon and Victoria Myers from Groundwork, and Nick Tomlinson and Ella Edwards from Bri-Stor, who re-branded the van.
About Groundwork
Groundwork is a federation of charities with a collective mission to take practical action to create a fair and green future in which people, places, and nature thrive. We support communities and businesses to build capacity and resilience in order to tackle hardship, achieve a just transition to net-zero and help nature recover in a way that reduces inequality and leads to healthier, happier lives for all.
Five years on from the launch of the Cadent Foundation, it has today released its annual Impact Report ‘Working together for a future without fuel poverty’ and revealed important new developments in the next phase of growth, as it aims to double the number of people supported in its mission to end fuel poverty. Since its launch in 2019, the Cadent Foundation has awarded over 25 million in charitable grants and in the past year alone, has driven initiatives with charity partners – including Groundwork and Citizens Advice – that have supported over 35,000 people living in the most vulnerable situations.
Throughout 2023, the Cadent Foundation projects, which operate throughout the most deprived areas of the UK, have helped to deliver:
Ranjit Blythe, Managing Director of the Cadent Foundation, said: “The impact we have been able to drive over the past five years has far exceeded the expectations we initially set ourselves. But, while we are all incredibly proud of the work we’ve done with our charity partners to support people living in the most vulnerable situations across the UK, we know there is still so much more to do, with over six million people still living in fuel poverty. We have learned a lot in terms of how to drive and deliver the most success from targeted projects and the next phase in our journey will see us doubling down on our efforts to reach as many people as possible, with both practical and financial support.”
Ranjit continued: “For us, the launch of our first Winter Support Fund in November 2023, which rapidly injected over £2m into communities, was incredibly powerful to witness. We were able to alleviate worry from so many families during the height of winter and it also empowered our charity partners, who were ‘on the ground’ working within the most deprived areas, with an option to quickly help people experiencing difficulties, without having to jump through hoops to do so.”
Some of the flagship programmes from the past year include:
Reflecting on the next phase of the Cadent Foundation’s evolution, Ranjit added: “We certainly have no plans to stand still! With the need as high as ever, we now want to engage in more high-impact projects that work even harder to reach even more people – with the ultimate goal of doubling our impact in the next five years. A key part of our evolution will see us, for the first time, becoming a charitable partner in our own right – facilitating Cadent’s 6,000 colleagues to directly fundraise and support hyper-local charities that align with the organisations Force for Good agenda. This new initiative supports our goal of reaching more people, while continuing to fund and deliver major nationwide fuel poverty projects.”
The Cadent Foundation’s new 2024 Impact Report, ‘Working together for a future without fuel poverty’, details the grants awarded in 2023 and how the funding has improved the lives of so many communities throughout the UK.
To learn more, please visit Cadent Foundation - Cadent Gas Ltd
Picture Captions:
Picture 1: Ranjit Blythe, Cadent Foundation’s Managing Director.
Picture 2: A Cadent Foundation funded Green Doctor, sharing energy efficiency advice with a local resident in Newham.
The Cadent Foundation was established in July 2019 with Cadent committing 1% of annual post tax profits each year to the Foundation. Our aim is to help households find sustainable solutions to fuel poverty and ensure people are safe and warm in their homes. We work with charitable organisations to help households improve their financial wellbeing and become more energy efficient through advice, support and practical measures.
The funds of the Cadent Foundation are administered by Charities Trust (Charity Registration No: 327489) who will manage the grant giving and ensure that all grants donated by the Cadent Foundation are only used to further charitable purposes for the public benefit.
Groundwork, a leading community charity and the Cadent Foundation have today announced a new £6m programme to support those living in fuel poverty across England.
‘Stay Warm, Stay Well’ will provide much needed help for households who are struggling with their energy bills, with Groundwork Green Doctors – energy efficiency advisors – visiting homes and offering practical guidance on energy saving, behaviour change tips and referrals to other local support services, including debt advice and food banks.
Over the course of the three-year programme, over 14,500 consultations will take place in regions across England, with a particular focus on vulnerable households.
In addition to the Green Doctor support, the programme is also funding an initiative to support the creation of new energy advisors, via a 12-month traineeship opportunity, through the Green Doctor Academy. This scheme aims to create more accessible pathways into work, in particular for those who are unemployed or economically inactive, people with disabilities or individuals from an ethnically diverse background.
The programme is part of a new phase in Groundwork’s partnership with the Cadent Foundation, which has so far invested £3m in funding over 10,000 Green Doctor consultations carried out between 2020-23 across England.
Graham Duxbury, Groundwork’s UK Chief Executive, said: “This new funding from the Cadent Foundation couldn’t be coming at a more important time. Feedback from our Green Doctors is that they’re visiting an increasing number of people who are taking drastic measures to make ends meet – from skipping meals to living in permanently cold, damp homes – with many falling into debt. We’re also seeing more working people who are ineligible for government support but who still need advice on how to reduce their bills. We’re delighted that the Cadent Foundation is able to provide strategic, multi-year support for our Green Doctors, which will help us expand our service to more people and ensure we have a workforce able to meet growing demand.”
Julia Dwyer, Director of the Cadent Foundation, said: “The impact from our initial partnership which began in 2020, has been incredible to witness, particularly as the work of energy advisors has been vital throughout the cost-of-living crisis. We’ve learnt a lot throughout the first phase, which supported more than 10,000 households, but being able to fund the training of local people, to advise and guide their own communities on energy efficiency and money management, is really powerful. We truly believe that a solid knowledge of how to optimise the energy efficiency of a home, is the key to alleviating fuel poverty in the long-term and the next stage in our partnership will allow us to expand the programme even further, increasing our involvement and doubling the amount of funding to help even more families.”
Stay Warm, Stay Well will provide immediate need for support for households during the cost-of-living and continued energy crisis. Insight from a recent Groundwork survey, found that 94 per cent of Green Doctors reported supporting households that did not use their central heating at all, with 85 per cent saying they had worked with people cutting back on food or only eating cold meals.
One Green Doctor commented: “We’re seeing people choosing between which bills to pay and whether to eat meals, and many don’t even consider putting on the heating. It’s heartbreaking and infuriating. The energy crisis is far from over – there are so many people and families in urgent need of help.”
In addition to the new programme, Groundwork has developed a section of its website, Get Energy Help, to offer clear, simple advice on different ways to save energy, stay warm and reduce energy bills, including resources on minimising heat loss or understanding meters.
Find out more about Stay Warm, Stay Well here: https://www.groundwork.org.uk/stay-warm-stay-well
Further information
Get Energy Help: https://www.groundwork.org.uk/getenergyhelp/
Green Doctor survey: https://www.groundwork.org.uk/news-green-doctor-survey-24/
About Stay Warm, Stay Well
Stay Warm, Stay Well is a three-year programme that aims to help those living in fuel poverty by offering tailored energy advice, carried out by Groundwork’s Green Doctors.
Funded by the Cadent Foundation and led in partnership by Groundwork, the programme will invest £6m and support 14,500 households in communities across England.
In addition to the Green Doctor support, the programme is also funding an initiative to support the creation of the next generation of energy advisors via a 12-month traineeship opportunity, through the Green Doctor Academy, to create more accessible pathways into work.
Find out more: www.groundwork.org.uk/stay-warm-stay-well
About Groundwork
Groundwork is a federation of charities with a collective mission to take practical action to create a fair and green future in which people, places, and nature thrive. We support communities and businesses to build capacity and resilience in order to tackle hardship, achieve a just transition to net-zero and help nature recover in a way that reduces inequality and leads to healthier, happier lives for all: www.groundwork.org.uk
About the Cadent Foundation
The Cadent Foundation was established in July 2019 with Cadent committing one per cent of annual post tax profits each year to the Foundation. Our aim is to help households find sustainable solutions to fuel poverty and ensure people are safe and warm in their homes. We work with charitable organisations to help households improve their financial wellbeing and become more energy efficient through advice, support and practical measures.
The funds of the Cadent Foundation are administered by Charities Trust (Charity Registration No: 327489) who will manage the grant giving and ensure that all grants donated by the Cadent Foundation are only used to further charitable purposes for the public benefit: https://cadentgas.com/cadent-foundation
The Cadent Foundation has today announced the launch of its first ever Winter Support Fund in a bid to rapidly inject vital financial help into communities across the UK. The new £2 million pound investment aims to offer much needed energy and food support to people living in the most vulnerable situations this winter and will be distributed through Cadent Foundation’s current charity partners, including Citizens Advice, Groundwork UK and Trussell Trust.
Launching on Fuel Poverty Awareness Day, the new fund is designed to allow charities offering energy and money guidance, to have rapid access to additional financial resources, helping to make an immediate impact for people needing extra support. With new research by Opinion Matters revealing that almost all (89%) UK adults with a household income of £29,500 or less are finding it challenging to cover their household bills, and with 41 per cent stating they are struggling with energy bills and do not know where to turn, the launch of the Winter Support Fund comes at a time of increasing need across the country.Ranjit Blythe, Managing Director of the Cadent Foundation, said: “As part of our focus on tackling fuel poverty, the Cadent Foundation has strong partnerships with incredible charities offering energy efficiency and money management advice, together with practical energy saving interventions. We know these are making a real difference in the communities that we work in to drive long-term change. However, we also know that the situation for many who are living in the most vulnerable situations is desperate, and due to the ongoing cost of living challenges, this is not expected to change any time soon. Therefore, we wanted to empower our charity partners who are working in the communities daily, to be able to make an immediate difference to people when they need it the most.
“With the number of people living in fuel poverty sitting at 6.3 million this year according to National Energy Action, we know this fund won’t provide the much-needed long-term solution for tackling this issue. But hopefully, by giving charities the option to make a quick financial impact, it will make the decision on whether to eat or heat their homes, a little easier for people this winter.”
How to access the support:
The food and energy vouchers will be available to people who are living in the most vulnerable situations and who Cadent Foundations’ current charity partners, including the Trussell Trust and Citizens Advice, are supporting with energy efficiency and money management guidance.
The funding boost will be available between December and March and has the potential to support thousands of homes across the country in areas of high deprivation. Each household can receive up to two vouchers, with the option of also having up to £100 to spend on essential heating and cooking appliances, such as heated blankets, slow cookers and air fryers.
Gillian Cooper, Director of Energy at Citizens Advice, added: “Our work with the Cadent Foundation has already helped over one thousand people access crucial information about energy efficiency, benefits and ways to maximise their incomes.
“This winter could see millions of people struggling with their bills. The ability to provide vouchers to people facing immediate hardship means we can help some get access to electrical goods and prevent others from having to make the impossible choice between heating, eating or keeping the lights on.”
ENDS
About the Cadent Foundation
The Cadent Foundation was established in July 2019 with Cadent committing 1 per cent of annual post tax profits each year to the Foundation. Our aim is to help households find sustainable solutions to fuel poverty and ensure people are safe and warm in their homes. We work with charitable organisations to help households improve their financial wellbeing and become more energy efficient through advice, support and practical measures.
The funds of the Cadent Foundation are administered by Charities Trust (Charity Registration No: 327489) who will manage the grant giving and ensure that all grants donated by the Cadent Foundation are only used to further charitable purposes for the public benefit.
Notes to Editors:
The research was conducted by Opinion Matters and resulted in 2,004 UK adults (aged 16+) with a household income of £29,500 or less responding.
Know someone who needs support
If you, or someone you know could benefit from additional support this winter, request a free Green Doctor referral. Groundwork's Green Doctors are energy saving experts who can offer free, impartial advice to help you take control of your bills, save energy where possible in the home, and access other services available.
For more information, please contact:<
Louise Day
Head of PR & Communications, Cadent
07773118357
The Cadent Foundation has today announced a major new two-year partnership with RNIB, the UK’s leading charity supporting people who are blind or partially sighted (BPS). As part of the Cadent Foundation’s mission to tackling fuel poverty, it has awarded the RNIB £250k to increase its team to deliver vital energy efficiency and money management advice, via the charity’s Sight Loss Advice Service. The funding boost is expected to help RNIB to reach an additional 10,000 more people.
As the cost-of-living challenges continue to bite, a survey revealed that people who are blind or partially sighted are being disproportionately impacted, with 89 per cent saying they were using less heating as a way to cope with increased financial pressures and half saying that they were using their disability benefits to cover these costs, rather than covering the costs of disability.
Reflective of these findings, the RNIB’s vital Sight Loss Advice Service continues to experience a surge in calls to its helpline, with a regular increase of more than 30 per cent at peak times. Through this increased funding, more people will be able to benefit from bespoke financial guidance, as well as receive access to practical and quick solutions, with some potentially achieving an income gain of more than £3,000 a year.
Lyndsey Warren, RNIB Head of Advice, said: “Our Sight Loss Advisers (SLAs) understand the unique challenges faced by blind and partially sighted people, providing personalised support on a wide range of topics, from employment support, to providing advice on the current cost of living pressures.
“Together with the Cadent Foundation, we hope to further break down barriers for people with sight loss and equip them with the tools and knowledge to increase their financial wellbeing and resilience.”
Julia Dwyer, Director of the Cadent Foundation, added: “We know that financial pressures are sadly being experienced by most families across the UK right now, but to hear the shocking statistics that people who are blind or partially sighted are unable to receive the additional help and support they need, is very worrying. Having the knowledge to understand how you can reduce your ever-increasing energy bills, or even know how to make the most of every penny of your earnings, will significantly help to empower people and reduce further bill anxiety. We are delighted to be partnering with RNIB and we have high expectations of this new initiative. In addition to reaching over 10,000 people with financial help and guidance, we expect many of them to regularly achieve an income gain of more than £3,000 a year, which could make a vital difference.”
For more information about the RNIB, or its Sight Loss Advice Service, please visit:
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About the Cadent Foundation
The Cadent Foundation was established in July 2019 with Cadent committing 1% of annual post tax profits each year to the Foundation. Our aim is to help households find sustainable solutions to fuel poverty and ensure people are safe and warm in their homes. We work with charitable organisations to help households improve their financial wellbeing and become more energy efficient through advice, support and practical measures.
The funds of the Cadent Foundation are administered by Charities Trust (Charity Registration No: 327489) who will manage the grant giving and ensure that all grants donated by the Cadent Foundation are only used to further charitable purposes for the public benefit.
Notes to Editors:
For more information, please contact:
Louise Day
Head of PR & Communications, Cadent
07773118357
About RNIB
We are the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB).
Every six minutes, someone in the UK begins to lose their sight. RNIB is taking a stand against exclusion, inequality and isolation to create a world without barriers where people with sight loss can lead full lives. A different world where society values blind and partially sighted people not for the disabilities they’ve overcome, but for the people they are.
RNIB. See differently. Call the RNIB Helpline on 0303 123 9999 or visit www.rnib.org.uk
Care City, an innovation centre for healthy ageing and regeneration, has secured a £102,714 grant from the Cadent Foundation this month to pilot important new initiatives to help tackle fuel poverty within the Barking and Dagenham community. With a mission to help households find sustainable solutions in tackling fuel poverty, ensuring people are safe and warm in their homes, the Cadent Foundation funding will support Care City in creating an innovative new model to identify where fuel poverty invention needs to take place, specifically targeting vulnerable communities with health issues.
According to Government statistics (Sub-regional fuel poverty 2020) one in five households in the Barking and Dagenham area are unable to heat their homes compared to the national average, which can have detrimental effects on both physical and mental health. Studies also show that local residents have a lower-than-average life expectancy, at 57.2 years for males and 57.1 for females. Working closely with local authorities, GP’s and community organisations, and powered by new and targeted research, Care City will implement bespoke fuel poverty solutions, such as providing financial assistance with managing energy costs, advice on reducing energy use and support on energy efficiency measures, all of which will be community-led. Furthermore, this pilot will also signpost households to other related services, creating a one-stop-shop for fuel poverty advice. This pioneering approach will not only deliver positive outcomes but also provide learnings and best practice to use across the borough.
Julia Dwyer, Director of the Cadent Foundation, said: “The NHS in England spends £1.3 billion each year treating preventable conditions caused by cold, damp homes, adding more pressure to strained NHS services. Now, with rising costs of energy pushing more communities into fuel poverty, the need for this type of project has never been greater and we’re pleased to support Care City to provide tailored support for local residents.
“We know there isn’t a quick fix and one size doesn’t fit all, so we hope this innovative approach will deliver impactful, co-designed, fuel poverty solutions which address the needs of the local community and have a positive lasting impact, helping them to make more informed decisions and ultimately, feel more in control of their lives.
“It is hoped that the interventions identified will not only have significant impact locally but could also provide a sustainable model for wider UK roll-out.”
James Sinclair, Chief Operating Officer at Care City, added: “Barking and Dagenham is Care City’s home and it’s heartbreaking to see so many of our neighbours unable to heat their homes and experience exacerbated health problems as a result. But it’s not all doom and gloom – Barking and Dagenham has incredible assets from engaged residents and a very active VCSE sector to a council and health services who are working hard to improve lives across the borough. We are delighted to be working with The Cadent Foundation to bring these people together to deliver a solution by, with, and for the community which empowers them to help themselves, their neighbours and beyond. Through a process of co-development and co-delivery, we will ensure that community need and voice remains at the heart of this approach and ensures sustainability beyond this project.”
For more information about Care City please visit www.carecity.org
About Care City
Care City is an innovation centre for healthy ageing and regeneration and works as the innovation partner to East London's health and care system. Every project it takes on is about improving both health and the determinants of health. It is currently working on projects to improve - variously - the built environment, community cohesion and economic development alongside improving health. Over time it wants to help to build a system of anchor institutions across East London. It became a Community Interest Company in June 2019.
The Cadent Foundation has today released its 2022 Impact Report, outlining its progress in helping households to find sustainable solutions in tackling fuel poverty, while ensuring people are safe and warm in their homes. With an estimated 7.5 million households predicted to be living in fuel poverty by April 23, this mission remains vitally important, with more families expected to turn to fuel poverty charities, foodbanks and debt charities for help.
In 2022 alone, the Cadent Foundation awarded more than £2.9 million to charities helping to tackle fuel poverty across the UK, with the important funds helping to provide debt advice and guidance on how to improve the overall energy efficiency of the home. However, there is still more to do and this year, the Cadent Foundation has pledged to award a further £15 million over the next three years to charitable organisations working to tackle the root causes of fuel poverty across the most deprived communities.
Some of the flagship programmes from the past year include:
Julia Dwyer, Director of the Cadent Foundation, said:
“We’re incredibly proud of all the charities we’ve supported and have had the privilege of working with over the past few years. However, sadly this year, we’ve really seen the impact of the ongoing cost of living crisis, which has plunged millions more people into fuel poverty, which is why we have focused our attention on one core objective, tackling the root causes of fuel poverty. Now, as part of this commitment, we are delighted to be able to extend our support further by pledging an additional £15 million over the next three years to continue helping to alleviate the devastating impact of fuel poverty on UK households.
“Throughout the last 12 months, we’ve identified new partners, adopting a holistic model which brings together multiple organisations with the same focus on delivering stronger outcomes for vulnerable communities, ultimately making it easier for people in hardship to find the help they need. We can already see this approach working and we have ambitious plans to continue building on this to maximise the positive impact we can have together.”
Cadent Foundation awards Citizens Advice £492,886 to tackle fuel poverty
The Cadent Foundation has awarded £492,886 to Citizens Advice to launch a 12-month pilot project, offering dedicated energy advice and support to ensure people have the benefits and allowances they're entitled to. The pilot will take place across eight priority locations, including Burnley, Knowsley, Liverpool, Birmingham, Sandwell, Lincoln, Norwich and Ipswich.
The cost-of-living crisis has seen a huge increase in the numbers of people coming to Citizens Advice with complex issues and in need of support. This funding will mean residents in the chosen areas will be able to speak to a dedicated energy caseworker who will provide one-to-one fuel debt and benefit support.
Daniel Gill, Utilities Partnerships Manager at Citizens Advice said:
“We are delighted the Cadent Foundation has chosen to support our work in helping people at the sharp end of the cost-of-living crisis.
“Projects like this, where dedicated energy caseworkers can support households to access financial assistance are needed now more than ever before. Through this service, we’ll gain valuable insight into how to tackle fuel poverty for the most affected households.
“It also means we’ll be able to provide people with information on how to make their homes more energy efficient in the long term and improve their overall quality of life.”
Julia Dwyer, Director of Cadent Foundation said:
“It’s vitally important that we continue to work together to find new and effective ways of tackling fuel poverty. As an organisation, Citizens Advice already provides an invaluable service and we were eager to support them with this new pilot initiative providing one to one, tailored support for people struggling with their energy costs. There isn’t a quick fix to help people to break free from fuel poverty which is why ongoing support to help people with long term solutions is what’s needed.
The impact of this project will help shape future programmes to ensure we are delivering the right solutions and reaching those in most need of support.”
For more information about how Citizens Advice can help visit the Citizens Advice website and search for your local office.
New research published today into the impact of the Cadent Foundation funded Reactive Response scheme
Today, new research conducted by fuel poverty charity National Energy Action shows how a pioneering partnership with the Cadent Foundation has kept 1,467 households safe, while preventing them from falling into debt – at a time when the energy crisis has taken hold.
The Reactive Response programme supports vulnerable customers who have had their gas supply disconnected on safety grounds by a Cadent engineer and are unable to afford the repair costs, potentially leaving families with no heating, hot water, or means of cooking. Reactive Response enables Cadent engineers to make an immediate referral to National Energy Action to resolve the issue by requesting important funding, helping customers to remain warm and well at home after their supply is reinstated.
An independent evaluation of the Cadent Foundation funded Reactive Response scheme, has found so far the scheme has:
Adam Scorer, chief executive National Energy Action, says:
“From April 7.5 million UK households will be in fuel poverty, according to our figures. When there is a problem customers may have to be disconnected from the gas supply for safety. While some can afford to fix the problem, those in fuel poverty could have been left off supply – cold and desperate. The Reactive Response programme means we can identify those who need urgent help and with Cadent we can get them reconnected as soon as possible so they can get the lights and heat back on.”
As part of the analysis on the Reactive Response scheme, three recommendations have been outlined by the charity:
Julia Dwyer, Cadent Foundation Director, said: “Supporting people out of fuel poverty is one of the fundamental objectives of the Cadent Foundation and the Reactive Response scheme offers an innovative new approach to tackling a growing problem. This is the first initiative of its kind within the energy industry and its impact on vulnerable customers has already been phenomenal.
“A referral from a Cadent engineer to National Energy Action can be the key to re-establishing a safe and effective heating system in the home of a vulnerable person.
“By helping people to achieve affordable warmth, the Reactive Response scheme is reducing the number of households likely to be in fuel poverty, improving health and wellbeing and consequently, reducing demand on primary health care services. There has also been a significant impact on Cadent frontline staff. By referring a customer for assistance, engineers can leave knowing that the needs are being taken care of, giving them peace of mind and job satisfaction.
“Our own analysis is clearly demonstrating an increasing requirement for this kind of service and so we hope that this initiative will become standard business practice across the entire utility sector, providing a blueprint that all gas and electric distribution networks can replicate to support vulnerable customers.”
Now in the second year of our partnership with the Trussell Trust we’re proud of the difference the Financial Inclusion officers continue to make across 17 foodbanks, supporting thousands of households become more financially stable.
We’re pleased our funding enables them to provide much needed income maximisation, financial support and debt advice to help people access benefits and grants they are entitled to, so far helping over 4,000 people receive financial inclusion support.
Watch the video to find out more about the Financial Inclusion work.
For more information about Trussell Trust visit: The Trussell Trust - Stop UK Hunger
Nottingham Energy Partnership’s (NEP) ‘Future-Fit Works, an extension of their Future- Fit Homes project, is available to Meadows residents, in Nottingham.
As part of the new pilot, households will receive a free tailored home energy assessment delivered by trained energy experts who will provide advice and information on energy-saving improvements. Based on the findings of the assessment, the initial first steps are outlined in a package of ‘quick wins’ averaging up to £1,000 to kickstart their retrofit journey. The grant allows NEP to provide practical solutions which aim to improve the ventilation of the home and increase energy efficiency through various measures. These include installing ventilation, boiler optimisation, draught-proofing doors, loft insulation, pipework insulation and many more.
The Meadows falls into the top 20% of most deprived areas in England, making Future Fit essential to its residents. According to sub- regional fuel poverty statistics in 2019, over 20% of these households are living in fuel poverty, a figure which has risen with the increasing cost of living. As the project develops, the impact of these measures will have long term benefits for households, not only on energy usage but also a reduction on their carbon emissions.
Ensuring the hard-to-reach households are not overlooked, the NEP will signpost people to their existing partners at Nottingham City Council, Meadows Advice group and Age UK for further support and advice if necessary, to break down barriers to accessing services available to residents. By making recommendations for home improvements and advising on the best way to carry these out, the trained experts will also work with households to improve their confidence when engaging with tradespeople.
Darren Barker, Contract & Home Improvement Manager at National Energy Partnership said:
“Funding from Cadent Foundation will allow us to deliver the Future-Fit Works project and offer support to people in the Meadows who are not eligible for grants or lack confidence with implementing energy measures. This will plug the gap and kickstart households’ journey towards a whole house Retrofit thereby improving the ventilation and energy efficiency of homes.
NEP will conduct the surveys, choose the best products for the job and develop a team of local installers who will work to the highest standards. Apart from helping to make homes energy efficient we will be advising the homeowners on the next steps and encouraging them to learn more.”
Julia Dwyer, Director of Cadent Foundation said:
We’re pleased to provide this grant to Nottingham Energy Partnership, to be able to extend their Future Fit Homes project. We hope this grant will help to break down barriers to accessing services and trained experts will instil confidence amongst local residents and provide them with a quick measures package to improve the overall energy efficiency of their home whilst delivering a deeper understanding of how to plan for future energy efficiency improvements.”
For more information on National Energy Partnership visit: Hello - Nottingham Energy Partnership (nottenergy.com)
Wrekin, who provide affordable homes to over 28,000 people across Telford & Wrekin, Shropshire and Staffordshire, will be able to recruit their first dedicated energy advisor after securing the funding from the Foundation. The grant will enable Wrekin tenants most at risk of fuel poverty to benefit from one to one, tailored energy and debt advice.
Over the next two years, the energy advisor will work with Wrekin’s tenants to provide energy saving advice, as well as offering practical support to people most at risk of fuel poverty with measures to make their homes more energy efficient. They will work holistically with Wrekin’s Money Matters support teams to provide additional help in accessing energy related grants and other schemes that might be available, putting more money back into people’s pocket and improving overall wellbeing.
Dan Bebbington, Debt and Energy Manager with the Wrekin Housing Group, said:
“The rising cost of energy remains a major concern for our tenants. We’re receiving calls from worried customers on a daily basis and we are working hard to provide them with the right support and advice.
“I’m delighted that we now have the resources to recruit a dedicated energy advisor. For Wrekin tenants facing money struggles it’s important they know we are by their side to help them through – not just now, but for the many months to come.
“We would like to thank the Cadent Foundation for their support in making this much-needed role a reality.”
Julia Dwyer, Director of the Cadent Foundation said: “Our core purpose is to help households find sustainable solutions to fuel poverty by awarding grants to charities and organisations working to support those impacted by this growing issue.
With the increasing cost of living a constant struggle for Wrekin tenants we’re pleased to offer a grant to the Wrekin Housing Group to enable them to provide personalised energy and debt advice through the new dedicated energy advisor. The project will help tenants manage their energy use, make their homes energy efficient and access support and schemes which will give them greater financial security in the long term.”
For more information visit The Wrekin Housing Group
A new ‘Stay Warm in Newham’ project has been launched by the Renewal Programme and Groundwork UK, to address the rising levels of fuel poverty amongst Newham residents after securing a £237,811 grant from the Cadent Foundation.
By taking a multiagency approach to tackling fuel poverty, this service will operate as a ‘one stop shop’, providing energy advice and support, energy related hardship grants and access to warm bank sessions. In addition, three community partners will be involved in the project with multilingual communications in key locations such as medical facilities, community centres and public libraries through a number of outreach events, ensuring the most vulnerable, hard to reach communities are aware of the support available to them through the ‘Stay Warm in Newham’ project.
With an estimated 8.6 million people expected to be living in fuel poverty by April 23 (End Fuel Poverty Coalition) this two-year project will see the Renewal Programme work with the energy efficiency experts at Groundwork Green Doctors to combine energy advice and support through a ‘link worker’ service to help residents maximise opportunities. They will provide residents with tailored advice, learning about energy debt management, understanding how to save energy in their homes and take control of the bills, to help them cope with the rising cost of living crisis. In addition, the Green Doctors will work with Newham Local Authority to help residents access council funded grant and support schemes, by guiding them through the processes to access this existing support from the Local Authority which currently has a low take up.
The project which launched on Friday 20 January at the Renewal Programme, was attended by the Mayor of Newham, Rokhsana Fiaz who spoke about the challenges faced by residents and how bringing together different partners and expertise will help to target vulnerable individuals and their families. Peter Laing from the Renewal Programme and Julia Dwyer, Director of the Cadent Foundation also talked about the difference this project will make to local residents and removing barriers to services for those who would otherwise go unnoticed.
Peter Laing, Chief Executive Officer, The Renewal Programme said:
“The Renewal Programme has been working in Newham for over 50 years, and our mission is to stand alongside those who are struggling, inspiring hope, and offering opportunities for connection, growth and progress. The current cost of living crisis is having a deep impact on Newham’s residents and it is likely to have implications for years to come. The funding of this project by the Cadent Foundation will enable us to provide vital support to the community.
In October 2022 we conducted our Cost-of-Living Crisis survey, which revealed that 77% of those surveyed are worse off compared to the previous year, and 27% will not use heating to cope with the cost-of-living crisis. Staying warm in the winter months is not a luxury, and our community should not have to choose between using their heating or basic necessities such as food.
The Renewal Programme and our partners plan to support 3,000 Newham residents a year to access warm bank sessions, support, and activities. We will provide energy related hardship grants to some of its most vulnerable residents. We will also provide hot meals once a week and host volunteer led cooking classes to encourage residents to try different energy saving methods. We are excited to expand the reach of this project with the help of our community partners Kensington Primary School, Newham Community Project, and ClimateYouChange too.
We are determined to stand with Newham residents during these trying times and provide the support needed to tackle the rising levels of fuel poverty, and we are proud to be working with Cadent Foundation and Groundwork to do this.”
Julia Dwyer, Director of the Cadent Foundation said:
“Our core purpose is to help households find sustainable solutions to fuel poverty by awarding grants to charities and organisations working to support those impacted by this growing issue. With high levels of fuel poverty in Newham we wanted to bring together key stakeholders to work towards alleviating fuel poverty in the borough and so we got in touch with the Renewal Programme to see how we could identify the gaps in support and working together on a project to tackle fuel this problem.
We are delighted to be able to offer this grant to Renewal Programme to enable them to support the local residents of Newham through the ‘Stay Warm in Newham’ project. With rising energy costs and vulnerable households being forced to make difficult decisions every day, we hope the practical help and advice this project will offer through a dedicated link worker service, will benefit local residents and help to make a real difference, at such a difficult time. We believe that by using a holistic ‘one stop shop’ approach, this project will provide Newham residents with in-depth personalised support to improve their circumstances.”
For more information on Renewal Programme please contact [email protected] and visit: www.renewalprogramme.org.uk
For more information on Groundwork’s Green Doctor programme, together with tips and advice on keeping your home warm this winter, please contact [email protected] and visit www.groundwork.org.uk/greendoctor
Working with Groundwork Green Doctors, the winter warmer pack campaign, now in its third year sees the largest ever number of bags donated to help households in need tackle the winter, with 5,000 packs being given out between now and March 2023.
People living in vulnerable situations across the UK are being given extra support to stay warm and well during the winter months thanks to funding from the Cadent Foundation and community action charity, Groundwork.
5,000 winter warmer packs have been produced as part of a three-year strategic partnership between the Cadent Foundation and Groundwork. The packs will be distributed as an emergency intervention to those most in need via local food banks and community hubs/centres and groups in towns and cities across the UK. Each pack contains a range of items to help people keep warm this winter such as thermal socks, thermal gloves, hat, scarf, a temperature card, hot water bottle and blanket.
ONS figures suggest an estimated 63,000 excess winter deaths occurred in England and Wales in winter 2020/21, 6.1 times higher than winter 2019 to 2020. Across the UK, NEA estimates that on average more than 10,000 people die each year due to living in a cold home, a statistic that is likely to increase this year.
The Groundwork Green Doctor programme offers free, impartial advice and practical measures to help individuals take control of their bills, save energy where possible in the home, and access other services and initiatives available.
Graham Duxbury, Groundwork’s UK Chief Executive, said: “In the midst of the energy crisis, the waiting list for our energy advice services continues to grow at an alarming rate. We are pleased to be able to provide emergency relief through winter warm packs, helping people to cope in the short term, while our Green Doctors continue to offer the advice and practical help needed to find long term solutions to the challenges presented by increasing levels of fuel poverty.”
Julia Dwyer, Director of the Cadent Foundation, said: “We’re pleased to be able to fund the much-needed winter warmer packs for the third year. Many households face an uncertain winter this year, with the current cost-of-living crisis, it’s going to be a challenging time for many people as we head into winter, and so we’re working with charity partners to tackle the root causes and impact of fuel poverty across our networks.”
We wanted to reach even more people living in vulnerable situations, so we’re delighted we’ve been able to double the number of packs this year to 5,000 and we couldn’t do this without our partner Groundwork who help to get these packs to those who need them to most. It’s reassuring to know these packs will help make a real difference at such a difficult time.”
The Cadent Foundation is funded by local gas network Cadent and has been established to help households find sustainable solutions to fuel poverty and ensure people are safe and warm in their homes. More information can be found at www.cadentfoundation.com
For more information on Groundwork’s Green Doctor programme, together with tips and advice on keeping your home warm this winter, visit www.groundwork.org.uk/greendoctor
The ‘Connected for Warmth’ scheme will offer new gas central heating systems to households that need help with their energy bills. It will also offer a free connection to the gas main for homes that are currently without gas but that can benefit from affordable heat in their homes and hot water.
The grant from the Cadent Foundation will be used to install the latest energy efficient boilers to around 1000 homes. Its aims are to reduce bills, increase comfort in non-gas households, and improve health outcomes for residents.
The scheme will run across the entire area served by Cadent, the Gas Distribution Network Operator, which reaches most of the Midlands, the East of England, North London and the North West. This will support the most vulnerable of people in these areas who are living in fuel poverty and enable them to have a warm home.
The Connected for Warmth scheme is being managed by AgilityEco and has also received the endorsement of a number of local councils.
Households can find out more by visiting www.connectedforwarmth.org.uk or by calling 0800 029 4547.
Cadent Foundation has awarded a grant to National Energy Action, a fuel poverty and energy efficiency charity, to support the most vulnerable with repairs or replacements to their gas appliances.
Within the gas emergency industry, Cadent’s First Call Operatives (FCOs) respond to emergencies such as, gas escapes or carbon monoxide alarms and may have to disconnect a customer’s gas supply to make the property safe.
Customer’s on a low income or in a vulnerable situation are at times unable to afford to pay for the necessary repairs or replacement works. This can put people in situations without heating, hot water and cooking facilities for an indefinite amount of time.
Having identified this, the Reactive Response scheme allows the FCOs to refer people in vulnerable households to the programme which will arrange for repairs or replacements of gas appliances free of charge.
Feedback from the scheme has been positive and have customers frequently commented on how satisfied they were with the service they had received through Reactive Response:
“Without your help I would be in dire straits. I wouldn’t know what to do. I appreciate the support offered to me at a very vulnerable time. Thank you.”
“I'm so grateful for your help and the expertise of the workmen who fitted the new piece of gas pipe. I would not have known who to turn to or trust without your help.”
For more information about National Energy Action, the charity the foundation has chosen to support and its ambition to tackle fuel poverty go to their website https://www.nea.org.uk/
The Trussell Trust, which supports a network of food banks across the UK, has been awarded a £1.5 million grant from the Cadent Foundation.
The grant, which has been announced as part of a new three-year partnership with the Cadent Foundation, will be used to support the charities’ work to tackle destitution by increasing people’s incomes.
The Trussell Trust’s income maximisation programme supports food banks to offer advice for people in person and over the phone, to help them access benefits and grants they are entitled to but not already claiming. This new funding will support the creation of sustainable services needed locally and help make sure people have enough money for the essentials.
This winter, food banks in the Trussell Trust network are expecting to give out a food parcel every 9 seconds – and 670,000 more people in the UK are at risk of facing destitution, unable to afford the basics like food, shelter, heating.
Emma Revie, Chief Executive of the Trussell Trust, said:
“As we head into a winter forecast to be the busiest ever at food banks, we are so grateful to the Cadent Foundation for their support. Hunger in the UK isn’t about food, it’s about people not having enough money. That’s why this partnership will make such a difference - by helping food banks provide tailored advice and support that puts money back in the pockets of people who need it the most, it’ll help prevent people needing a food bank again. It’s not right that anyone needs to use a food bank, at any time of year. But this can change. This year has shown we can make huge changes to the way we live, work and support each other – we can build a hunger free future, a future where all of us can afford the basics.”
Julia Dwyer, Director of the Cadent Foundation, said:
“The aim of the foundation is to make a positive and lasting difference to the communities Cadent serves and this project fits the bill perfectly. This is a wonderful initiative focused on ending the need for food banks by providing practical support to people in crisis so that they can tackle the issues they’re facing.
“We’re delighted to support the Trussell Trust and look forward to working with them over the next three years to help people break free from poverty.”
For more information on the Trussell Trust, visit www.trusselltrust.org
The elderly and people living in vulnerable situations are being given extra support to stay warm and well during the winter months thanks to the Cadent Foundation and community action charity, Groundwork.
The Cadent Foundation has granted £40,000 to Groundwork, to create 2700 winter warmer packs for those most in need. The packs will be distributed via local food banks and community hubs in towns and cities across the UK. Each pack contains a range of items to help people keep warm this winter such as socks, gloves, hat, scarf, hot water bottle, blanket, thermal flask mug and energy saving lightbulbs.
Latest ONS figures revealed there were an estimated 28,300 excess winter deaths in England and Wales in 2019/20, 19.6% higher than the previous year. Respiratory diseases accounted for almost 40% of all excess winter deaths and according to fuel poverty charity National Energy Action, 8,500 were due to cold homes.
Groundwork’s Green Doctors programme provides energy saving advice that helps people to keep warm, well, and save money by reducing energy bills. Graham Duxbury, National Chief Executive of Groundwork, said: “Around 4 million people in the UK are in fuel poverty, unable to afford to live in a warm, dry home. During the cold winter months, people are expected to use 30% more energy on average than they normally would. With more people at home, increased utility costs and unemployment rising due to the financial impact of the pandemic, more families will be experiencing extreme financial hardship as well as the emotional strain of keeping themselves and their loved ones well.
“Fuel poverty is also a major factor in our ability to cope with disease. Living in a dangerously cold home increases the risk of heart attacks, respiratory illness, pneumonia and affects mental health, which means finding cost effective ways of keeping people warm is essential. Small changes can have a big impact and these winter warmer packs – backed up by practical advice from our Green Doctors - will help some of the most vulnerable in our society keep warm and well during the cold weather.”
Julia Dwyer, Director of the Cadent Foundation, said: ““We’re delighted to be able to offer this grant to Groundwork to provide practical support to those who need it most. Many vulnerable households are facing even bleaker challenges as we head into winter and it’s reassuring to know these packs will help make a real difference at such a difficult time of year.
“This grant is just the first stage in a wider partnership between the Cadent Foundation and Groundwork, which will see the charity’s Green Doctor programme rolled out in numerous locations across the UK in 2021.”
For more information on Groundwork’s Green Doctors programme, together with tips and advice on keeping your home warm this winter, visit www.groundwork.org.uk
The grant will be used to support the charity’s £15+ project which aims to build the financial resilience and improve the wellbeing of people living in the city. The project has a simple core objective, to improve the finances of beneficiaries by a minimum of £15 a week. It will provide wide ranging support to empower people to transform their lives, with a strong focus on with hard-to-reach groups who have historically struggled to access mainstream support services.
Participants in the project will be offered a personalised package of support including income maximisation checks, help to claim eligible benefits, debt management and budgeting. They will also be given guidance on switching utilities, and how to access energy efficiency measures and grants for home insulation and energy discount schemes. Coaching will be provided to help people change their attitudes towards money and improve financial literacy. The project will also offer employability support with opportunities to develop skills through work placements and volunteering to get people into paid work.
Sharon McAsey, Project Manager at the Zinthiya Trust said: “There are significant areas of deprivation in Leicester, social mobility rates in the city are the sixth worst in the UK and 39% of children are living in poverty. There is also a large population of people for whom English is not their first language; they struggle to access mainstream services and are being left behind creating massive inequality in our community.
“Our experience has shown that everyone experiences poverty differently; whether it’s due to family pressures, physical and mental health problems, domestic abuse, a reliance on benefits or working on low income. One dimensional solutions are not effective and an intensive, holistic approach is required to ensure the poorest in our community do not fall even further behind financially.
“The £15+ project has a measurable, easy to understand goal which has proved extremely successful in pilot trials. It will help improve people’s financial literacy by equipping them with financial management skills that will last a lifetime. This increased knowledge will increase their ability to live independently and lead fulfilling lives, improve emotional wellbeing and reduce stress related problems. It will also help reduce isolation and ensure people are not excluded from society simply due to insufficient disposable income to attend an event or meet a friend for coffee.”
Over the next 12 months, the grant funding from Cadent Foundation will enable the Zinthiya Trust to provide both online and in person support through referrals and a programme of drop-in sessions and group events at locations across the city.
Sharon added: “We are extremely grateful to the Cadent Foundation for this generous grant. It will allow us to help people in some of Leicester’s most deprived communities transform their lives.”
Julia Dwyer, Director of the Cadent Foundation, said: This is a wonderful initiative focused on tackling challenges with practical solutions. We’re delighted to be able to support the Zinthiya Trust to help people in vulnerable situations become financially stronger and more resilient in the longer term – giving them the opportunity to take back control of their lives.
“The aim of the Cadent Foundation is to create meaningful change and this project fits the bill perfectly. Not only will it directly benefit those taking part, the results will also have a positive impact on local support services and the wider community in Leicester.”
Green Doctors are energy efficiency experts helping vulnerable households across the UK to stay warm and well, save money on their household bills and improve energy efficiency at home. With 1 in 10 households in the UK experiencing fuel poverty, it's a crucial lifeline for many.
The £3 million grant will enable Groundwork to expand and enhance its established Green Doctor programme, deploying trained advisors in at least ten priority locations, providing high quality energy cost saving advice to thousands of vulnerable households.
Green Doctors will visit people in their homes (once COVID restrictions allow), provide remote support (by telephone and online) and attend community events, delivering energy efficiency advice, promoting behaviour change and installing energy saving and warm home measures. They will also work with other services to provide rounded support to vulnerable households, including onward referrals to maximise benefit claims, address home safety issues and tackle food poverty.
Some of the services offered by the Green Doctors include identifying causes of heat loss in the home, helping to identify and tackle damp or mould problems, offering useful tips for saving energy, installing small energy efficiency measures, such as draft excluders and supporting people to switch energy providers to save money.
Graham Duxbury, National Chief Executive of Groundwork said: “Groundwork is delighted to have the support of the Cadent Foundation to deliver such a worthwhile project. This is the largest grant we have ever received for our Green Doctors programme and it will undoubtedly have a huge impact on some of the most vulnerable people across Cadent’s network.
“Around 4 million people in the UK are in fuel poverty, unable to afford to live in a warm, dry home. With more people at home, increased utility costs and unemployment rising due to the financial impact of the pandemic, more families will be experiencing extreme financial hardship as well as the emotional strain of keeping themselves and their loved ones well.
“Working with priority groups such as young people and families, low-income households, residents of poor housing and those suffering ill health, this new partnership will help vulnerable households boost their income by saving energy, so that they can live more comfortably and reduce their environmental impact.”
In the first year, the project aims to support at least 3,000 vulnerable households through Green Doctor consultations, deliver at least 300 training events in local communities and install 9000 small energy saving measures to achieve annual cost savings amongst vulnerable households of up to £465,000.
Camil accessed the Green Doctors’ services in February 2021. He said: “My partner died just before Christmas and I have been really struggling for money as I’ve been on furlough and so only receiving 80% of my usual wage. At the same time, I found out my benefits had been overpaid and I needed to find the money to repay them. I was really scared and just didn’t know where to turn to.
“My neighbour contacted a local councillor who referred me on to the Green Doctors. The Green Doctor contacted me and not only helped me get the benefits payments written off but gave me an energy consultation to reduce my bills. I’m grateful because the support really took the pressure off and I feel more felt able to cope financially. I feel like a huge weight has been lifted and I can finally get some sleep.”
Julia Dwyer, Director of the Cadent Foundation, said: “Supporting people out of fuel poverty is one of the fundamental objectives of the Cadent Foundation and this new partnership with Groundwork will offer free, practical help and advice to thousands of people. With one in ten people across the UK struggling to heat their home, it’s vital to ensure that money and resources are available to support individuals and families in some of the worst hit areas.
“We’re delighted to support Groundwork’s Green Doctors programme and look forward to working with them closely over the next three years to help lift people out of fuel poverty.”
For more information on Groundwork’s Green Doctors programme, together with tips and advice on keeping your home warm this winter, visit www.groundwork.org.uk
The ‘Smarten Up, Power Down’ initiative will work with households across Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin and Derbyshire to examine how the introduction of smart and high-tech energy saving solutions can be used to achieve long-term cuts in energy bills and encourage the uptake of energy saving measures.
Over twelve months, the charity will work intensively with 18 fuel poor households whose income has been significantly reduced by the recent economic downturn to reduce their energy bills. The project will trial smart and high-tech technologies such as Google Nest heating controls, Envirovent intelligent extractor fans, AirEx smart air bricks and Radbots, an occupancy sensing radiator controller. These will be applied alongside other tried and tested solutions and Marches Energy Agency will work with the participants to track and monitor their usage and savings.
Guidance materials and ‘How to’ videos will be created to offer advice and signposting services, helping people to save money and gain confidence in using smart technologies. In addition, 20 frontline energy advice workers will be trained and upskilled in the use of new smart measures, benefiting potentially thousands of households as part of the charity’s core activity.
Phil Newcombe, Project Manager at Marches Energy Action explains why the project is necessary: “Mainstream training and funding around reducing fuel poverty has yet to take full advantage of smart and high-tech measures. One key barrier is often people’s access and attitudes towards technology and innovation.
“As deferred energy payments mount, heating costs rise and time spent at home increases as a result of the COVID pandemic, persistent debt and an inability to meet necessities will be a reality; for some perhaps for the first time. Many of this group will have greater access to technology and with the right support and funding, will be open to adopting new approaches to energy saving.
“These savings are expected to be sustained year on year and will help demonstrate the clear need for integration of smart and innovative technologies into national fuel poverty programmes. The impact of the ‘Smarten Up, Power Down’ project will be used to advocate for better funding and training across the sector.”
One participant who suffers from health problems is already seeing the benefits of some of the measures, both to their wellbeing and finances. They commented: “My asthma has got worse due to damp and the indoor humidity is high which is very bad for asthmatics. 2020 was horrible and my lung damage frightening, but the extractor fan and finally getting the loft lagging is wonderful to me. Old houses can be cranky to live in and they need looking after too, it will appreciate the project as will the bills! Thanks again for all your help, I do very much appreciate it. Many thanks also for organising the LEAP home visit last week, he put Heatsaver panels behind the radiators and brushes on the doors. It all helps and the vent is doing its job so I’m very happy.”
Julia Dwyer, Director of the Cadent Foundation, said: “1 in 10 households across the country are in fuel poverty and the impact of the COVID pandemic is likely to see that number rise over the coming year. The ‘Smarten Up, Power Down’ project offers an innovative new approach to tackling a growing problem, using practical solutions to generate significant, sustainable energy cost savings.
“We’re delighted to support Marches Energy Agency with this initiative which will not only directly benefit several vulnerable households but will hopefully also be the catalyst for adopting new national strategies to help lift people out of fuel poverty. Projects like this have a huge part to play in engaging everyone in the transition to net-zero, ensuring no one if left behind in the drive to a greener, more sustainable energy future.”
Marches Energy Agency deliver practical solutions to reduce fuel poverty and cold homes, promote energy reduction and encourage the uptake of renewable energy. For more information on the services offered, visit www.mea.org.uk
Damp homes provide the ideal environment for dust and other mites which can impact respiratory illnesses, whilst mould produces allergens and toxins which can be harmful to residents. Condensation, damp and mould are closely linked to fuel poverty and are often caused by under heating, poor insulation, inadequate ventilation and overcrowding.
The 'Breathe Easy' project will see HEET work with NHS health teams and agencies such as Citizens Advice and Age UK, as well as private landlords, to identify fuel poor households whose respiratory health is affected by these living conditions. Over the next two years, the funding from the Cadent Foundation will be used to treat mould growth, provide tailored energy advice and install demand-controlled ventilation systems as part of a package of heating and insulation measures for these households.
According to the Kings Fund (Housing & Health, 2018) health hazards relating to poor quality housing costs the NHS £2billion each year. Eradicating condensation and mould and improving energy efficiency in the homes of those with respiratory conditions, will improve the quality of life of residents by providing a safe home environment. The project will also help reduce health inequalities and demands on the NHS, improve incomes and reduce fuel poverty, whilst also lowering carbon emissions and the impact of climate change.
HEET Co-ordinator, Tom Ruxton, said: “People need warm, dry homes in order to be healthy and productive citizens. It was widely recognised that a large proportion of housing in the UK is substandard and there is significant investment in making homes more energy efficient. However, a lot of this funding focuses on single measures instead of taking a whole house approach. Making homes more air-tight helps lower carbon emissions and household fuel bills but can make problems of condensation, damp and mould worse.
“Homes that are insulated, well-ventilated and efficient to heat remain warm and dry and provide a safe and healthy environment for vulnerable residents. If households are additionally provided with good quality energy advice that is appropriate to their circumstances, their fuel bills can be reduced and condensation managed. Housing related ill-health, unlike many social issues, is solvable with the correct technical interventions.
“The funding from the Cadent Foundation will allow us to expand the multi-measure package of home improvements we can offer to specifically target problems caused by mould and damp. It will also support the training of frontline staff in identifying residents suffering from cold and damp housing related ill health. It’s hoped the project will support more than 600 fuel poor households over the next two years, resulting in energy cost savings of £250,000 and lifetime carbon savings of 3000 tonnes through energy efficiency improvements.”
Julia Dwyer, Director of the Cadent Foundation, said: “Addressing the root causes and impact of fuel poverty is one of the core objectives of the Cadent Foundation and we are delighted to support HEET in their mission to make the homes of local people safe and healthy.
“1 in 10 households across the country cannot afford to live in a warm, dry home and there is a clear correlation between poor quality housing, fuel poverty and ill health. The Breathe Easy project offers practical solutions which will have long term benefits both to the individuals and health services in the region.”
HEET is a not-for-profit organisation working in the London boroughs of Waltham Forest, Redbridge and Enfield. Its mission is to make the homes of local people safe and healthy, with affordable fuel bills and low carbon emissions. For more information on the services offered, visit www.theheetproject.org.uk
The three-month pilot will engage 300 households within and around Merseyside and offer residents the opportunity to participate in free Carbon Literacy and/or Level 1 Energy Efficiency training. The courses are designed to encourage individuals to take action by increasing their knowledge of energy efficiency measures and guiding future decisions about home improvement options.
The charity will work with households to develop a plan for their home that maximises the improvement options available and calculates the potential carbon and financial savings. This will include providing an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) for any properties without one and identifying potential funding routes such as local authority grants or green mortgages.
By creating a library of resources and insights developed from the work with each household, the benefits and knowledge obtained can also be shared with the wider community.
Dominic Griffiths, Business Development Manager at EPPlus, said: “The ‘Plan A’ project has been designed to assist homeowners in improving the energy efficiency of their property, reduce energy demand, lower fuel bills, improve warmth, reduce fuel poverty and help support the UK to meet its commitment of achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050.
“The aim of the pilot is to demonstrate there is a real need to educate and support lower income, homeowner households to give them the ability and motivation to create change for themselves and the planet.”
Julia Dwyer, Director of the Cadent Foundation, said: “Projects like this have a huge part to play in engaging everyone in the transition to net-zero, ensuring no one if left behind in the drive to a greener, more sustainable energy future.
"Energy efficiency not only has a central role in tackling climate change, it also impacts people’s wellbeing and standard of living. One in ten households across the country are in fuel poverty and the COVID pandemic is likely to see that number rise. Improving the energy efficiency of a home reduces energy bills and helps lift people out of fuel poverty; whilst also reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
“Education and raising awareness are key and we’re delighted to support EPPlus with this initiative which will educate homeowners on the many options available to them and the difference it can make for both them and the planet.”
EPPlus is an independent not for profit organisation which works to advance the education of the public about energy efficiency and other environmental initiatives. For more information, visit www.epplus.org.uk
The funding will be used to expand ‘Reactive Response’, a pioneering new safeguarding system a pioneering new safeguarding system created by NEA, gas distribution network Cadent and the Cadent Foundation.
The initiative first arose with a desire from Cadent engineers to do more to support customers who were faced with having their gas supply disconnected on safety grounds. Regulations state that engineers are required to disconnect or isolate the supply of gas to an appliance or property in the event of a gas emergency which poses risk to life and property. However, this can leave vulnerable customers unable to cover the costs of repairing or replacing the appliances, exposing them to the danger of living in a cold home, potentially with no heating, hot water or means of cooking.
The Reactive Response scheme offers a solution by providing support for vulnerable customers who do not have the means or capacity to arrange necessary works following the disconnection of their gas supply. It allows Cadent engineers to refer customers to NEA, who then organise the necessary repair or replacement work (subject to eligibility). This can range from a simple gas pipework repair to the replacement of gas appliances and even the installation of full central heating systems.
Once the gas supply has been safely reinstated, NEA offers customers comprehensive energy efficiency advice, helping customers to be better able to heat their homes at an affordable cost. They are also supported to access other sources of help such as the Warm Home Discount and Priority Services Register, offered a Benefit Entitlement Check and support to claim any identified benefits for which they are eligible. This can lead to significant income gains as a result of a Reactive Response referral.
In 2020, the Cadent Foundation awarded a £612,000 grant to NEA for a one-year Reactive Response pilot project across Cadent’s networks – North West, South Yorkshire, West Midlands, East Midlands, East of England and North London. Based on the huge success of the pilot programme, a further £1.8 million has now been awarded to fund the initiative for another two years.
Peter Sumby, Director of Operations, NEA said: “Having an appliance condemned or gas supply disconnected can be devastating, particularly for those who are already struggling to afford heating costs and other essentials. Through this partnership we’ve been able to get people back on track, helping them live in homes that are safe and warm. The grant awarded from the Cadent Foundation will enable us to help many more households and we are thrilled to be able to continue this vital work.”
Julia Dwyer, Cadent Foundation Director, said: “Supporting people out of fuel poverty is one of the fundamental objectives of the Cadent Foundation and the Reactive Response scheme offers an innovative new approach to tackling a growing problem. This is the first initiative of its kind within the energy industry and its impact on vulnerable customers has already been phenomenal.
“A referral from a Cadent engineer to NEA can be the key to re-establishing a safe and effective heating system in the home of a vulnerable person. The pilot phase resulted in more than 700 successful referrals which is testament to the high level of need and frequency with which vulnerable customers find themselves at risk of living in a cold home, with no access to hot water or cooking facilities following a gas emergency.
“By helping people to achieve affordable warmth, the Reactive Response scheme is reducing the number of households likely to be in fuel poverty, improving health and wellbeing and consequently, reducing demand on primary health care services. There has also been a significant impact on Cadent frontline staff. By referring a customer for assistance, they can leave knowing that their needs are being taken care of, giving them peace of mind and job satisfaction.
“We hope that this initiative will one day become standard business practice across the industry, providing a blueprint that all gas and electric distribution networks can replicate to support vulnerable customers.”
National Energy Action (NEA) is a national charity working to end fuel poverty in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. For more information, visit www.nea.org.uk
Reactive Response is a new initiative which aims to help people who are faced with having their gas supply disconnected on safety grounds, to stay warm and safe in their homes. Regulations state that engineers are required to disconnect or isolate the supply of gas to an appliance or property in the event of a gas emergency which poses risk to life and property. However, this can leave vulnerable customers unable to cover the costs of repairing or replacing the appliances, exposing them to the danger of living in a cold home, potentially with no heating, hot water or means of cooking.
The Reactive Response scheme offers a solution by providing support for vulnerable customers who do not have the means or capacity to arrange the necessary works. It allows Cadent engineers to refer customers to NEA, who then organise the repair or replacement work (subject to eligibility). This can range from a simple gas pipework repair to the replacement of gas appliances and even the installation of full central heating systems.
One of the those helped by the scheme is Bethany, a single woman in her 50s with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Her boiler had been broken for some time, and she had not been able to afford to service or repair it. Reactive Response repaired her boiler, giving her access to heating and hot water for the first time in years. This video highlights how the scheme has helped Bethany and many others like her.
Peter Sumby, Director of Operations, NEA said: “Having an appliance condemned or gas supply disconnected can be devastating, particularly for those who are already struggling to afford heating costs and other essentials. Through this partnership we’ve been able to get people back on track, helping them live in homes that are safe and warm.”
Once the gas supply has been safely reinstated, NEA offers customers comprehensive energy efficiency advice, helping customers to be better able to heat their homes at an affordable cost. They are also supported to access other sources of help such as the Warm Home Discount and Priority Services Register, offered a Benefit Entitlement Check and support to claim any identified benefits for which they are eligible. This can lead to significant income gains as a result of a Reactive Response referral.
Reactive Response was first launched in 2020 when the Cadent Foundation awarded a £612,000 grant to NEA for a one-year pilot project across Cadent’s networks – North West, South Yorkshire, West Midlands, East Midlands, East of England and North London. Based on the huge success of the pilot programme, a further £1.8 million was recently awarded to fund the initiative for another two years.
Julia Dwyer, Cadent Foundation Director, said: “Supporting people out of fuel poverty is one of the fundamental objectives of the Cadent Foundation and the Reactive Response scheme offers an innovative new approach to tackling a growing problem. This is the first initiative of its kind within the energy industry and its impact on vulnerable customers has already been phenomenal. By helping people to achieve affordable warmth, the Reactive Response scheme is reducing the number of households likely to be in fuel poverty, improving health and wellbeing and consequently, reducing demand on primary health care services.
“We hope that this initiative will one day become standard business practice across the industry, providing a blueprint that all gas and electric distribution networks can replicate to support vulnerable customers.”
Earl Richards, Smart Metering & Customer Safeguarding Specialist at Cadent, said: “A referral from a Cadent engineer to NEA can be the key to re-establishing a safe and effective heating system in the home of a vulnerable person. Reaching the 1000 referrals milestone is testament to the passion and commitment of Cadent engineers to always put the customer first. Unfortunately, it also highlights the high level of need and frequency with which vulnerable customers find themselves at risk of living in a cold home, with no access to hot water or cooking facilities following a gas emergency.
“The Reactive Response scheme has not only had a huge benefit for customers, it’s also had a significant impact on Cadent frontline staff. By referring a customer for assistance, they can leave knowing that their needs are being taken care of, giving them peace of mind and job satisfaction.”
The funding will be used to create the East Birmingham Community Heat Test and Learn project. This new initiative aims to create solutions to address the challenges of retrofit and heat decarbonisation, by bringing together residents, policy makers and businesses, and engaging them in the journey to net zero.
The project will focus on three core elements:
The Birmingham Energy Institute will work in partnership with Places in Common, a public policy co-operative working to drive systems change, and The Active Wellbeing Society (TAWS), a community benefit society and cooperative focused on developing healthy, happy communities living active and connected lives.
Project Manager, Dr Emily Prestwood from the Birmingham Energy Institute commented: “We are delighted to be developing this project with the generous funding from the Cadent Foundation in collaboration with Places in Common and TAWS.
“The East Birmingham Community Heat Test and Learn project will establish new ways of talking about and engaging with residents, policy makers, asset managers and industry on energy, retrofit and heat decarbonisation. Using the Community Learning Platform process developed by Places in Common the project will identify scalable, replicable, placed based solutions that drive the systems change needed to deliver heat decarbonisation in a way that serves the needs of the people and neighbourhoods of East Birmingham.”
Julia Dwyer, Director of the Cadent Foundation, said: “We’re delighted to partner with Birmingham Energy Institute on this initiative which will not only directly benefit households in East Birmingham but will hopefully also create a blueprint for new strategies across the UK. Projects like this have a huge part to play in engaging everyone in the transition to net-zero, ensuring no one is left behind in the drive to a greener, more sustainable energy future.”
2500 winter warmer packs for those most in need have been produced as part of a three-year strategic partnership between the Cadent Foundation and Groundwork. The packs will be distributed via local food banks and community hubs in towns and cities across the UK. Each pack contains a range of items to help people keep warm this winter such as socks, gloves, hat, scarf, hot water bottle, blanket and a thermal flask mug.
ONS figures revealed there were an estimated 28,300 excess winter deaths in England and Wales in 2019/20, 19.6% higher than the previous year. Respiratory diseases accounted for almost 40% of all excess winter deaths and according to fuel poverty charity National Energy Action, 8,500 were due to cold homes, a statistic that is likely to increase this year.
Groundwork’s Green Doctors programme provides energy saving advice that helps people to keep warm, well, and save money by reducing energy bills. Graham Duxbury, Groundwork’s UK Chief Executive, said: “It’s vital that the most vulnerable households in our society have access to much needed support offered by Groundwork’s Green Doctors to help people take back control of their energy usage and stay warm and well this winter. Small changes can have a big impact and we are pleased that the winter warmer packs will provide additional, practical support to help those in need.”
“Fuel poverty is also a major factor in our ability to cope with disease. Living in a dangerously cold home increases the risk of heart attacks, respiratory illness, pneumonia and affects mental health, which means finding cost effective ways of keeping people warm is essential. Small changes can have a big impact and these winter warmer packs – backed up by practical advice from our Green Doctors - will help some of the most vulnerable in our society keep warm and well during the cold weather.”
Julia Dwyer, Director of the Cadent Foundation, said: “This is the second year we have funded the Winter Warmer Packs and we’re delighted to once again work alongside Groundwork to provide practical support to those who need it most, especially after the great feedback we received last year. Many vulnerable households are facing even bleaker challenges as we head into winter with the ongoing fuel crisis and rising energy costs, it’s reassuring to know these packs will help make a real difference at such a difficult time.
“This grant is just another stage in the wider partnership between the Cadent Foundation and Groundwork, which has seen the charity’s Green Doctor programme rolled out in numerous locations across the UK in 2021.”
For more information on Groundwork’s Green Doctors programme, together with tips and advice on keeping your home warm this winter, visit www.groundwork.org.uk
The ‘Warm and Healthy Homes Project’, is a new scheme which aims to reduce the number of cold related deaths and illness in Blackpool by providing individuals with the tools they need to fight fuel poverty.
The £31,814 grant from Cadent is being used to provide a dedicated case worker who will work with households to provide a tailored package of support and information. This includes providing help to access broader health and wellbeing support services, as well as offering critical money saving advice to reduce energy bills.
A £25,000 discretionary emergency fund from the Cadent Foundation, will be used to contribute towards the cost of keeping homes warm, this could include repairing or replacing heating appliances, double glazing, draught excluders, or insulation.
Over the next 12 months, the ‘Warm and Healthy Homes Project’ aims to support over 350 households struggling with fuel related poverty and provide them with a warm, safe, and healthy home. The project will also help to raise households’ awareness of other funding and services accessible to them within the Blackpool area; with the aim of leaving them with an improved quality of life that was previously unattainable.
John Donnellon, Chief Executive Officer at Blackpool Coastal Housing said: “The latest Fuel Poverty Statistics show that Blackpool has the largest number of households in Lancashire who are fuel poor, 15.2% compared with the national average of 10.3%. However, there is a significant gap in the support we can offer, with very little help available to improve the heating measures of those most vulnerable in our community. This grant is helping to meet that need and we are incredibly grateful to Cadent and the Cadent Foundation for awarding us the funding. The impact of this project will last far beyond the duration of the project itself; the improvements in health, wellbeing and financial circumstances of those most vulnerable in Blackpool will last a lifetime.”
Julia Dwyer, Director of the Cadent Foundation said: “We are delighted to be able to offer this grant to the Blackpool Coastal Housing to enable them to provide practical support to those who need it most. With rising energy costs many vulnerable households are facing ever increasing challenges as we head into 2022 and it’s reassuring to know this project will help make a real difference at such a difficult time.
“Supporting people out of fuel poverty is one of the fundamental objectives of the Cadent Foundation and initiatives like the ‘Warm and Healthy Homes Project’ is helping to tackle this growing problem.”
Edward Allard, Customer Safeguarding Manager at Cadent, added: “As a gas distribution network, Cadent is uniquely placed to see the real-life impact that fuel poverty has on households not only Blackpool, but in communities across the country. Cadent is committed to keeping people safe and warm in their homes and we’re excited to work with Blackpool Coastal Housing and the Cadent Foundation on this innovative new project.
The impacts of fuel poverty stand to be felt more severely this winter; and a holistic approach is needed to ensure we can help those most in need. This funding enables Blackpool Coastal Housing to provide a personalised package of support for local residents living in vulnerable situations. The project launched just before Christmas and we can already see it is having a significant impact.”
For more information about Blackpool Coastal Housing visit https://www.bch.co.uk
In 2021, as charities once again faced a challenging year of uncertainty, increased demand and declining resources, grants of between £1000 and £1.8 million were awarded to organisations working across the North West, West Midlands, East of England and North London.
These grants have supported a wide array of initiatives such as helping people increase their income and manage debts, improve the energy efficiency of their homes and reduce energy bills, provide access to STEM careers and mentoring opportunities for young people and reduce social isolation through community projects.
The Cadent Foundation’s new Impact Report 2021: Committed to a Better Future details the grants awarded in 2021 and how the funding has been used to improve people’s lives.
Julia Dwyer, Director of the Cadent Foundation, said: “With the ongoing impact of the pandemic and cost of living rises, 2021 was yet another difficult year for many people. As a Foundation, we reflected on what we had achieved in our first year and looked to find ways to do more for the charities we fund, to drive further improvement and increase the impact we have in the communities we serve. We’ve done this through strategic partnerships which combine our investment, expertise, and influence to create solutions that will help drive long term change.
“Despite the challenges of the last two years, we have seen extraordinary resilience as charities continued to adapt and rally in their mission to help the increasing number of people in need of their services. As restrictions eased and projects we funded moved forward, we were able to see the positive difference our grants have on some of the most vulnerable in our society. Thousands have people have been helped by charities we support – from giving people more money in their pocket, keeping families warm and safe at home, improving mental wellbeing, and providing disadvantaged young people with access to new opportunities.”
In 2022 and beyond the Cadent Foundation will continue to build on what it has achieved, adopting a more focused approach to working with charities and partners and exploring how to combine resources and expertise to maximise the positive impact of projects.
Julia added: “As we move into 2022 we have begun to reflect on our vision and purpose to ensure we are focusing on the right goals and going about it in the right way. Placing people at the heart of what we do, addressing the needs of our communities and the root causes of the problems that they face remains paramount. The stark reality is that the impact of global events and cost of living rises will leave millions of people faced with impossible choices. We believe this is where our efforts can make the greatest positive difference and will help shape the future direction of the Foundation.”
Regulations state that engineers are required to disconnect or isolate the supply of gas to an appliance or property in the event of a gas emergency which poses risk to life and property. However, this can leave vulnerable customers unable to cover the costs of repairing or replacing the appliances, exposing them to the danger of living in a cold home, potentially with no heating, hot water or means of cooking.
The Reactive Response scheme offers a solution by providing support for vulnerable customers who do not have the means or capacity to arrange the necessary works. It allows Cadent engineers to refer customers to NEA, who then organise the repair or replacement work (subject to eligibility). This can range from a simple gas pipework repair to the replacement of gas appliances and even the installation of full central heating systems.
One of the those helped by the scheme is Bethany, a single woman in her 50s with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Her boiler had been broken for some time, and she had not been able to afford to service or repair it. Reactive Response repaired her boiler, giving her access to heating and hot water for the first time in years. This video highlights how the scheme has helped Bethany and many others like her.
We offer grants to charitable organisations for projects which address the root causes and impacts of fuel poverty. Grant applications are by invitation only. If you have a project you think we might be able to support, we’d like to hear from you.
Please email a project outline to: [email protected]
All grants are subject to eligibility criteria.
Managing Director of Cadent Foundation
Director of Cadent Foundation
Cadent Foundation Manager
Foundation Project and Governance Advisor
Through the priority services register (PSR), eligible customers can receive additional services in relation to their communication, access and safety needs during an energy emergency.
You can join the priority services register here: Priority Services Register (PSR)
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The Cadent Foundation’s new Community Fund is offering Cadent colleagues the choice to nominate which local charities they would like to support across our networks.
Find out more about the Community Fund
The Cadent Foundation operates as a donor advised fund.
All grants are administered by Charities Trust
2nd Floor, Eleanor Rathbone House
Unit 16 Connect Business Village
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Charity Registration No: 327489
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