An 81-year-old man with a visual impairment has become the first recipient of a new initiative launched in Blackpool, helping him keep safe and warm this winter.
Desmond Murray was recently visited by Trainee Green Doctor, Luke, as part of the Stay Warm in Blackpool project. As part of the visit, he received a number of items that will help him keep his home energy efficient this winter, as well as advice to ensure he is not spending too much on his energy bills.
Desmond said: I had a home visit from Luke, who audited my home and reviewed my energy bills and tariff. I was eligible for low energy light bulbs, draught excluding tape and an electric blanket, all of which were fitted on the day by Luke. I’ve already felt the benefits, particularly from the draught tape.
Launched in November, Stay Warm in Blackpool is part of the wider Stay Warm, Stay Well programme that is designed to bring energy efficiency support, provided by Green Doctors, to local community groups. The project between Cadent Foundation and Groundwork will help increase access to individualised support, including energy advice, energy saving measures for the home and personal warmth items.
Desmond first heard about the support through N-Vision, a sight loss charity that provides a very range of free support services, which has teamed up with the Green Doctors to support the scheme through its befriending services. He has been visiting N-Vision at the Sharples Hall Activity Centre ever since he noticed his eyesight was beginning to worsen after the loss of his wife.
Desmond said: I started to lose my sight in 2019 and had treatment on my eyes to help preserve my sight. Losing your sight has such an impact on your life. I found myself to be more isolated, as I am no longer able to drive, while it’s also meant I cannot do as much gardening as I used to.
I was referred to N-Vision after a hospital visit, and I cannot recommend it enough. The team have completely rebuilt my confidence, and the new service with the Green Doctors has helped enormously. It’s great to know that such a fantastic initiative is here in Blackpool. I’m confident it is going to help a lot of people in need this winter.
The Stay Warm in Blackpool project is also set to build the skills of local residents, empowering them to identify and support people living in fuel poverty. This will be achieved through an Energy Champion initiative, where volunteers are recruited and trained to support with project delivery, helping to improve the reach of the programme among underrepresented groups.
Blackpool is one of four locations to benefit from the £370,000 programme. The other locations are in Barnet, Coventry, Leigh, and Wellingborough.
Photo Caption: Desmond Murray, 81, received support from Cadent Foundation’s Stay Warm in Blackpool programme.
