Surviving Winter

“Surviving winter” campaign launches in Hampshire to help fuel poor

The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Community Foundation (HICF) has launched its “Surviving Winter” campaign, supported by former TV presenter, Dickie Davies, and Meon Valley MP, George Hollingbery. The campaign is part of a wider National Surviving Winter Appeal launched on 10 November at the House of Commons, with the support of Saga, to help thousands of vulnerable and older people affected by fuel poverty.

With rising fuel bills and record numbers of households living in fuel poverty it is now more crucial than ever to provide help for vulnerable older people during the winter months. In 2008, 67,030 people in Hampshire were living in fuel poverty and between 2005 and 2008, 825 Hampshire residents died during the winter as a result of the cold.

All the money raised from the “Surviving Winter” campaign will be used to directly benefit older people in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight living in fuel poverty.

Speaking at the launch, Dickie Davies said “This is a marvellous initiative and it gives everyone, including those who receive the winter fuel payment, the opportunity to help older people in our local community who struggle with their winter heating bills. I will certainly be donating my winter fuel allowance when it comes through this winter.” He added “This campaign is targeting only those who can really afford to give.”

Meon Valley MP George Hollingbery, who is also backing the campaign said, "A great many senior citizens in Britain need winter fuel allowance and many constituents contact me about high fuel prices, but I have also been approached by many people who feel it's not right and proper they receive it because they don't need it.” George continued, “The “surviving winter” campaign is an innovative, practical and very positive way to tackle fuel poverty in a climate of rapid price increases for gas and electricity."

Toni Shaw, HICF Chief Executive, commented “Everyone who helps by making a donation will be making a real difference to those who are struggling to make ends meet during the winter months”. Toni added: “It is not just about keeping warm, lots of older people become more isolated in their own homes when the cold winter sets in, so by working alongside our partner organisations, including Brendoncare, CAB Hampshire and Princess Royal Trust for Carers, we are well placed to identify those in need of extra financial support and target the money raised with speed and efficiency.”

The HICF is encouraging people and businesses across the county to support this campaign, and hopes to raise £100,000. Winter fuel payments are allocated any time leading up to Christmas. If you would like to find out more about “surviving winter” or how you can make a donation, more information is available on the HICF website.