Rugby’s MP Mark Pawsey has backed the British Gas campaign to help local families “Stay Warm This Winter.”
Research from British Gas has shown having no heating or hot water would be the number one disaster for households this winter. Despite this, many people in Rugby and Bulkington are yet to take action to ensure their homes are winter-ready.
Despite the autumn chill, a national survey shows that more than a third of households (36%) have not checked that their central heating is working and four in ten have not prepared their home for winter by getting their boiler serviced. Having an annual boiler service carried out by a Gas Safe registered engineer is crucial as it detects problems with the boiler and controls, including whether it is leaking poisonous carbon monoxide.
Local residents can get support thanks to the Warmer Rugby initiative launched by Rugby Borough Council and with the charity Severn Wye Energy Agency. The Council has set up a Freephone line which aims to support households who struggle with cold homes or who find it difficult to pay their energy bills. People can find out more by calling the free helpline on 0800 500 3076 Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.
Mark said:
“It’s really important to keep a step ahead of winter. I want everyone in Rugby and Bulkington to understand what help is available for them, and for their family and friends. Being energy efficient and keeping bills under control is really important, so I’d encourage people to get in touch with their energy supplier to find out what support is on offer.”
Mark continued:
“Rugby Borough Council has launched a Freephone number for local residents to help them get advice on their fuel bills and let people know if they are eligible for grants or heating upgrades. This is a really great incentive to help families out in our local area and I hope that people will take advantage of this service as the weather gets colder.”
Mark concluded:
“One of the best ways to save money on fuel bills is to look at shopping around for the best deal on energy prices. Thanks to the Energy Switch Guarantee introduced under the Coalition Government, it has never been easier to switch your provider. However, it is clear more can be done to help consumers. As a member of the Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy Select Committee I am looking forward to examining this issue further.”