Thousands in Rochdale missing out on energy savings warns MP

12.00.00am GMT Sat 2nd Jan 2010

As the cold continues to hit Rochdale more than one in ten households in the Borough could be missing out on savings of up to £250 a year on their energy bills because they are failing to claim free insulation grants to which they are entitled.

Rochdale MP Paul Rowen is urging local residents to call the Home Heat Helpline on 0800 33 66 99 to see if they are eligible for assistance. The Home Heat Helpline is a free, not for profit phone line set up by Britain's energy companies to help customers who are struggling to pay their energy bills and keep warm.

Recent research conducted by the independent think tank New Policy Institute shows that residents could be saving around £150 a year on their heating bills by insulating their lofts and another £115 a year with cavity wall insulation.

Rochdale MP Paul Rowen said: "Free grants for insulation could provide a lifeline for thousands of families and older people across Rochdale as the coldest winter for 30 years continues. Statistics have shown that the winter death toll in England and Wales increased by 49% between 07/08/ and 08/09.

Mr Rowen continued: "There will be many residents that are not aware of the grants available to them especially if they live in a low income household claiming either out of work or disability benefits, working tax credit or pension credit. I would urge all residents to call the number now and make sure they are not one of the people missing out."

Christine McGourty, spokesperson for the Home Heat Helpline, said: "The research shows that there is a huge scale of unclaimed help that's out there on offer from energy suppliers.

"We have trained advisers who can help you get grants for insulation, special reduced tariffs as well as advice and support on how to keep warm and save money on you bills."