New energy advice service launched

As the cost-of-living crisis continues to hit people in our area hard, we’ve introduced a brand-new service which aims to help people save money on their energy bills and improve the efficiency of their consumption too. 

Our specialist energy advisors, whose roles have been funded thanks to the Energy Industry Voluntary Redress Scheme, will work alongside people visiting our Cornerstone, Red Door and Lalley Centre services, as well as running a series of drop-in and information sessions at locations across the diocese. 

Craig Savage, our head of social action, explained: “We know from the people that we work alongside in our local communities that energy bills are something that really worries them.  When families and individuals are already facing difficult decisions around their household expenditure, with many facing acute crisis, an unexpectedly high utilities bill can make difficult situations significantly more problematic.   

“This means that many people we work with are avoiding using showers, putting on heating, or cooking as they try and keep costs down, which leads to other difficulties – for example children who aren’t able to go to school as their uniform isn’t washed and their parents aren’t able to provide them with warm water to wash in, or people who are at risk of homelessness due to escalating costs. 

“Our new specialist advisors will be able to sit with people and look at their own individual situations and give advice and support tailored to their needs.” 

The specialist service will include: 

• LED bulbs and draught excluders. 
• the efficiency and appropriate use of heating and hot water appliances and systems and the functions of the controls 
• domestic fuel cost data using the domestic heat cost (Sutherland) tables 
• how to record gas and electricity consumption and work out costs 
• payment options for gas and electricity 
• insulation methods for improving the energy efficiency of a range of building types 
• information about Government initiatives 
• the causes of condensation dampness, how to avoid condensation and remedial actions to combat existing condensation 

Craig added: “As a charity tackling poverty and its causes underpins all our work, service provision and advocacy and we are always looking at ways we can support people in Greater Manchester and Lancashire.  This latest addition to our service provision will hopefully help many families and individuals experiencing challenging times and, alongside the other support we give, will help them to improve their current circumstances and look to the future. 

To find out more or book an energy advice session, including to enquire about sessions with BSL interpreters, please contact energyadvice@caritassalford.org.uk or call 0161 817 2250.