Keep Warm, Keep Safe

Winter warmer support for local residents

(Date of issue: Monday, 8 December 2008)

More than 70 residents living in the Harraby area of Carlisle, who are aged 75 years or older, have taken the opportunity to collect their free winter ‘survival kit’ today (Monday, 8 December).

The packs include items, which would useful in the event of extreme weather, including information from the Cumbria Energy Efficiency Centre and Benefits Advice Service, a torch, thermal gloves, insulating blanket and helpful information sheets. Proof of age may be requested.

They will be distributed during a series of drop-in roadshows this week. The first event was held today and was based at the Central Avenue shops. Further sessions are planned on:

Wednesday, 10 December - 10am – 2pm – Harraby Community Centre, Edgehill Road

Friday, 12 December – 10am – 2pm - Central Avenue shops

Organised by Carlisle City Council, the initiative has been jointly funded with Cumbria County Council.

Carlisle City Cllr Olwyn Luckley, Portfolio Holder for Health and Communities, said:

"It is estimated that there around 400 households within the Harraby area could be eligible for the Keep Warm, Keep Safe packs. We hope that they take up the offer of support and attend one of the roadshows."

Carlisle City Councillor David Weedall representing Harraby Ward Councillors, said:

"I encourage everyone who is entitled to these benefits, to help them keep warm, to claim them or contact the Cumbria Energy Efficiency Centre."

The Chair of Cumbria County Council’s Local Committee, Cyril Weber, said:

"Energy costs are now very significant, particularly for the elderly and so I hope these events will be well attended and have a good take up."

Cllr Barbara Cannon, Cumbria County Council’s cabinet member responsible for adults and culture, said:

"Cumbria is an area that suffers from fuel poverty more than most, so it’s vital that we offer support for the people most in need. It’s estimated that 24,000 older people will die in Britain this winter because their houses aren’t warm enough and they suffer from ill health linked to cold, damp living conditions."

"That makes us the country with the highest number of avoidable deaths due to winter cold in Western Europe. The county council is part of the co-ordinated effort to counter the effects of cold weather, and I would urge all older people in Harraby to wrap up well and get themselves along to one of the roadshows."