MP URGES ALL TO KEEP WARM THIS WINTER BY CALLING HOME HEAT HELPLINE

2.57.15pm GMT Mon 22nd Dec 2008

Paul Keetch, Lib Dem MP for Hereford, Ross-on-Wye and South Herefordshire is calling on people in his constituency who are concerned about heating their homes this winter to call the Home Heat Helpline (0800 33 66 99) for free advice and financial support.

There are 2,605 people in Hereford living in fuel poverty who are spending over 10 per cent of their income on paying their fuel bills. Fuel poverty disproportionately affects older people, single parents and those living with disabilities. One call to the free helpline can provide direct support through access to reduced tariffs, grants for free home insulation and flexible payment options, as well as the disconnection safety net to ensure that vulnerable customers will not be cut off even if they are unable to pay their bill.

Commenting Paul Keetch said, "I want to ensure that people in Hereford and the rural surroundings keep warm this winter as temperatures drop and the credit crunch continues to squeeze household budgets. That's why I'm urging anyone who is concerned about their fuel costs or those of a relative, neighbour or friend, to call the Home Heat Helpline free of charge on 0800 33 66 99. There will be advisors on standby who can help organise new tariffs, insulation grants and advice and support on how to keep warm and save money on their bills."

The Home Heat Helpline has received support from Help the Aged, Age Concern, Citizen's Advice, National Energy Action, Energy Saving Trust, Counsel and Care and One Parent Families/ Gingerbread. As part of its winter campaign, the stepped-up service will allow worried householders or their relatives and friends to make online enquiries and receive advice and support over the internet at www.homeheathelpline.org.uk

For more information, ring the Home Heat Helpline on 0800 33 66 99 or log on to www.homeheathelpline.org.uk

ENDS