Vulnerable residents and families are to be given extra help over the winter to keep them healthy, safe and warm.
Blackburn with Darwen Council has successfully bid for £115,000 from the Department of Health for the Warm Homes – Healthy People initiative.
Whether young or old, cold weather can cause serious health problems for people.
A number of partners including the Council, NHS, Age UK, Care Network and CVS have pledged to join forces, share intelligence and provide extra services ontop of their day activities.
These include:
• Free room thermometers
• Extra phone calls and home visits during the cold weather
• Specialist advice on benefits and other entitlements
• Fully trained staff offering advice on health and housing issues
• Extension of handyman service and a fast response in emergencies
• Emergency packs including fleece blankets, hot water bottles, thermal gloves and low energy heaters
• Recruitment and training of 20 new volunteer “winter buddies” who can check on elderly residents
• Emergency assistance for urgent repairs to heating
• Help with gritting and snow clearance.
The Warm Homes – Health People initiative is aimed at reducing winter deaths, the number of cold/damp homes, falls and accidents and alleviating fuel poverty.