Somerset Community Foundation (SCF) is urging local people and businesses to get behind its Surviving Winter Appeal, which helps older people living in fuel poverty to stay warm, safe and well during the coldest months.
Thanks to the generosity of local supporters, the appeal has raised £50,000 so far, which is providing grants to cover heating costs, support to make homes more energy efficient, and activities that reduce isolation and improve wellbeing for older people. 
“Around 10,000 older people in Somerset are living in fuel poverty, with many facing stark choices between heating and eating,” said Justin Sargent, Chief Executive of Somerset Community Foundation. “The support raised so far is already making a difference, but with the coldest months of the year ahead, there’s still huge demand for our support – particularly grants to help with fuel bills.”
“While changes to the Winter Fuel Payment have helped, we know the poorest older people in the county are still struggling. Many live alone, with health conditions or in poor-quality housing, which makes winter even tougher.”
With over 15 years of experience running the Surviving Winter Appeal, SCF works alongside local partners to provide targeted support for people on low incomes, those living alone, or those with health conditions that make cold weather particularly risky.
Carol, 60, was supported last year and has a severe medical condition that causes her chronic pain and limits her mobility.
“My condition is terrible all year round, but worse in winter. I’m at home all day and it gets really, really cold. You need heat, you need to be able to dry clothes on the radiators and get on with your life. But I had to have the heating off in the daytime. I just could not have it on because it cost too much money. It was so cold, you cannot imagine.”
With several weeks of winter still to come, SCF is encouraging those who can to continue to support this local effort. Every donation, whether a one-off gift or a regular payment, helps reach someone else who may be struggling with rising costs and fuel poverty.
Supporters can find out more or make a donation at somersetcf.org.uk/winter or by calling 01749 344949.
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