Scheme keeps the needy warm (From This Is Wiltshire)

THOUSANDS of vulnerable people across Swindon and Wiltshire have been helped by the Health Through Warmth scheme this winter.

The scheme, set up in 2000 by npower, partnered with National Energy Action, is designed to help residents with health problems triggered by cold conditions, and without the income to cope with the cost of installing or replacing heating and insulation.

The scheme was able to help those who most needed it in the winter months with necessities such as new boilers, taking more than 2,000 referrals and £1.2m funding from other organisations to pay for the measures.

Scheme manager Elaine Midwinter said: “Even though the freezing weather is behind us for another year, help is available.

“We are encouraging anyone who feels they, or someone they know, may be eligible, to get in touch.” Call 0845 070 2809.