Sovereign’s support for households in fuel poverty

Sovereign Housing Association is helping their vulnerable residents with fuel voucher support for families most affected by Covid-19.

Sovereign is highlighting the need to support their residents most in need on National Fuel Poverty Awareness Day today, Friday 27 November.

The housing association has issued 188 fuel voucher top-ups totalling £9,786 since July, with further funds set aside to provide support throughout the winter months.

Fuel poverty impacts on the lives of some of the most disadvantaged children and young people. Living in a cold home can have long lasting effects on health, learning and enjoyment of life and in some cases, parents cut back on essentials so they can heat the family home.

This is the second time Sovereign has launched a new range of support services for residents most affected during the pandemic. Fuel poverty is viewed as an interplay of three elements:

• Cost of energy

• Household income

• Energy efficiency of the household

To help with the cost of energy - Sovereign are also urging residents to take advantage of the energy suppliers Warmer Homes Discount Scheme, where savings of £140 off your electricity bill for winter 2020 to 2021 could apply.

Many people have faced a drop in income due to furlough and unemployment. To help residents Sovereign has tripled its investment in employment and training support, giving residents the opportunity to increase their earnings, set-up their own business and receive practical help with CV writing and interview techniques. 

Sovereign also helps residents who are struggling to pay for fuel, insurance and utilities by developing additional money support offers around affordable furniture and finance.

Andrew Cooper, Head of Business Development and Fundraising, said: “We’re proud so many residents have accessed our fuel vouchers and support, and we’re committed to supporting residents in fuel poverty further.

“On national Fuel Poverty Awareness Day, we would urge anyone struggling to heat their home to access this support.”