National Energy Action’s Warm Homes Campaign has recently highlighted the problem of fuel poverty, which currently sees over four million households in the UK unable to afford the energy they need to stay warm and healthy in their homes. It is a particular problem for those on low incomes living in energy inefficient homes that are difficult and expensive to heat.  In Wales, an estimated 291,000 households -; nearly 1 in 4 -; are believed to be in fuel poverty.

Jessica Morden said, “Living in a cold damp home can lead to extremely poor health, especially in those who are vulnerable such as older people, young children, and those with long term sickness and disabilities.  That’s why Fuel Poverty week, the work of the NEA, and efforts to reduce fuel poverty are so important for people’s health and wellbeing.  A big part of this work is being carried out by the Welsh Government with its Welsh Housing Quality Standard and a new £20 million programme to build 20,000 new affordable homes which are fit for the future through efficiency, and by reducing fuel bills”.

“I also know that there has been some fantastic work done locally by the South East Wales Energy Agency in their Healthy Homes scheme, helping 36 households in crisis, and securing a further £135,000 worth of boiler replacement referrals in Newport East. Their work has helped to make homes warmer, drier, and more affordable to run”.

Jenny Saunders OBE, Chief Executive of National Energy Action commented: “Fuel poverty is a serious problem and one that we cannot tackle alone. I am delighted that Jessica Morden is supporting the campaign and helping to ensure that her constituents can live warm, healthy and happy lives”.