Beat the winter with Help the Aged

The problem of excess winter deaths is higher in Northern Ireland than in comparable Northern European countries such as Finland and Germany, even though their winters are typically more severe.

Poor housing standards, different attitudes towards the cold and relative incomes all contribute to the persistency of the problem in Northern Ireland.

'Keep the warmth in' is an extension of Help the Aged's Energy Saving Trust Energy Efficiency Project. The Project, implemented through Help the Aged’s SeniorLine Service, is a referral scheme designed to help those in most need.

Keep the Warmth In (1.9Mb)

WARMER HOMES
Older people eligible for the scheme will be offered a new central heating system in their home, installation of energy efficiency measures, and help and advice in accessing benefits. Residents who do not qualify for the scheme may still be due additional benefits to help with fuel costs. SeniorLine can help all callers identify and access the help they are entitled to.

In addition to this, and to help influence people’s behaviour in dealing with the cold, the partnership has produced a 'Keep the warmth in' information booklet which will be distributed by Help the Aged. As well as offering practical measures to keep out the cold, the pack contains a calendar of useful dates and information such as when to get a flu jab, tips to keep homes warm and useful numbers for services.

Help the Aged believes that robust action and a greater will to put in place more ambitious measures is required to effectively deal with excess winter deaths and is therefore tackling the matter on several fronts. These include raising awareness of the issue among the public, changing behaviour and providing practical solutions and advice about how best to keep warm, claim benefits and insulate homes.

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