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Cold homes map
A map of the coldest homes in England has been published by the Department of Health to encourage vulnerable people to stay warm this winter
Although cold homes have a significant impact on health with cold weather linked to heart and respiratory problems, serious illness, discomfort and depression, those most susceptible to ill health during the winter are often those who are living in housing the least prepared for the cold.
Health Minister, Ivan Lewis, said: “It is vital to look after yourself and stay warm and well during the cold winter months. Cold homes have a significant impact on people's health and wellbeing. There are millions of pounds of grants available for help with insulation and heating systems, and fuel payments to help older people, those on low incomes and disabled people.
“I urge people to plan ahead and find out what help is available and what measures they can adopt to ensure they are protected against the winter.”
The new cold homes map of England marks the launch of the Department of Health Keep Warm Keep Well campaign that advises those most vulnerable to winter cold on how to stay warm and healthy during the colder months.
Financial support for heating is available through the Warm Front Scheme and Winter Fuel payments. Every 45 seconds a home receives a new heating system as a result of the Warm Front Scheme and over 11,625,453 winter fuel payments were made, amounting to a total value of £1,776,849,550, in 2005/06 alone.
People can find out about financial support by calling the Warm Front Scheme on 0800 072 0151 and 08459 15 15 15 for information about Winter Fuel payments.
For more information on how to keep warm and well this winter, and to download a copy of the Keep Warm Keep Well guide click here. A copy of the booklet can also be obtained from Citizens Advice Bureaus
To find out about getting a flu jab, please approach your GP, practice nurse or pharmacist, or visit NHS Direct, NHS Direct Interactive on digital satellite TV, or call NHS Direct on 0845 4647.
The top ten areas in England with the highest percentage of people over 65 living without central heating are:
- Liverpool 28.8 per cent
- Leeds 28.1 per cent
- Barrow in Furness (Cumbria) 26.5 per cent
- Portsmouth 24.5 per cent
- Kingston upon Hull(Yorkshire) 24.0 per cent
- Knowsley (Merseyside) 23.7 per cent
- Kirkless (Yorkshire) 23.4 per cent
- Birmingham 22.5 per cent
- Waltham Forest (Outer London) 22.3 per cent
- Penwith, Isles of Scilly (Cornwall) 20.9 per cent
Information on this site is for interest only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. You should consult your own doctor about any specific health concerns.
