A campaign to help the most vulnerable in our communities to stay warm and well this winter has just been launched.

The Surviving Winter appeal asks those who feel they can, to consider donating their Winter Fuel Payment from the Government to those who desperately need extra support during the cold winter months.

Over 1,000 older people in Devon are at risk of dying this winter due to avoidable cold related illnesses and one in eight Devon households are living in fuel poverty. In rural areas, this number rises to one in five.

The Surviving Winter Appeal, co-ordinated through Devon Community Foundation, aims to make a lasting difference to people at risk from cold homes. Over the last five years it has distributed nearly £40,000 in grants to individuals in need and to community groups that work with vulnerable residents.

Community Energy organisations are supporting the appeal after seeing first-hand the need in the community. Katie Reville, director of South Dartmoor Community Energy said: “In the South Hams we have many homes that are not on the gas network and that are very old, which makes them expensive to keep warm.

“These factors can lead to people struggling to pay their heating bills and putting up with cold, damp homes that are bad for their health. The Surviving Winter appeal is a valuable way to help those struggling to stay warm and well this winter.”

You can donate to the Surviving Winter Appeal online at: www.devoncf.com/give/surviving-winter or by sending a cheque, made out to Devon Community Foundation to: Surviving Winter, Devon Community Foundation, The Factory, Leat Street, Tiverton, EX16 5LL.

For free and impartial advice on home energy issues please call the South Dartmoor Community Energy Advice Team on 0800 112 3044 or visit: www.southdartmoorcommunityenergy.org