Training in Frome aims to tackle fuel poverty and support the community
Experts urge better awareness of fuel poverty to save lives
Efforts to combat fuel poverty in Frome are gaining momentum, with a local initiative helping organisations and individuals become more aware of its signs and effects.
Training led by Frome Town Council’s Healthy Homes Team and The Centre for Sustainable Energy (CSE) aims to equip people with knowledge to identify fuel poverty and offer practical advice to those in need.
Fuel poverty, which results from unaffordable energy costs relative to household income, is on the rise due to increasing energy prices. Experts Caroline Wajsblum from Frome Town Council and Deb Geraghty from CSE discussed the impact of the issue and emphasised the importance of broadening awareness.
"Fuel poverty is particularly impactful over the winter months, affecting people’s health and, in the most extreme cases, contributing to excess winter deaths," Wajsblum said. She added that around 10% of households in Frome are fuel poor, rising to 16% in surrounding rural areas.
Recognising fuel poverty
The training helps participants spot signs that individuals may be struggling with fuel poverty. According to Geraghty, indicators can range from mould and damp in homes to high energy bills that people feel they cannot address.
"When you walk into a cold house, you might notice people wearing extra layers indoors, condensation on windows, or a musty smell," she explained. "It’s also worth asking simple questions such as whether they can afford to heat their home or if they’re experiencing ongoing health issues like lingering colds or coughs due to living in cold conditions."
The initiative also highlights the mental toll fuel poverty can take, from social isolation due to embarrassment about home conditions to reduced resilience.
Creating community impact
The training aims to ensure community members and local organisations can spot these signs and offer assistance. Several support options exist, such as Frome Town Council’s Healthy Homes project, funded by the Green and Healthy Frome initiative. Services include drop-in sessions at the medical practice, home visits, and full retrofit assessments to improve energy efficiency.
"We have trained advisors available on the first Wednesday of every month at the medical practice in Frome. Home visits can offer practical advice, like draft-proofing or radiator panels, and more detailed retrofit assessments for structural changes," explained Wajsblum.
CSE also plays an instrumental role, helping people across Somerset, Bath, Bristol, and surrounding areas. Their advice line offers guidance on energy efficiency, tariff switching, and heating management to reduce costs.
Seeking help
The Centre for Sustainable Energy’s free advice line can be reached at 0800 082 2234 from Monday to Friday, 9am – 5pm. Their website also offers additional resources for those needing assistance. For residents of Frome, the town council’s Healthy Homes team offers tailored support locally.
Geraghty concluded, "Fuel poverty doesn’t only affect one demographic; it can impact anyone – whether young or old, working or non-working. Raising awareness through training means fewer people living in cold homes, dealing with poor health, or feeling isolated."