The Office for National Statistics estimated that there were 1,900 unnecessary winter deaths in Wales last year. One in three households in Wales live in fuel poverty and, 79,000 people in Wales used a foodbank last year. There is no doubt that older people and families are suffering in our communities.
Liza Kellett, Chief Executive of the Community Foundation in Wales explained:
“The Surviving Winter campaign started three years ago as a vehicle to recycle Winter Fuel Payment that people had received but didn’t feel that they needed, but quickly expanded to take in donations from people of all ages, and of all amounts, which are directed to the local groups supporting vulnerable people in winter.
Last year we focused on those suffering as a result of winter storms and floods, and we were delighted that our community of donors gave over £80,000 to support people and communities in their flood recovery efforts. For example we gave a grant to Rhyl Town Council who gave small emergency grants people for immediate relief.”
The Community Foundation in Wales is working with UK Community Foundations on this UK wide appeal which is being supported by Turn2us, a free service which helps people in financial hardship to access welfare benefits, charitable grants and other financial help. Alison Taylor, Director of Turn2us said: “Turn2us is pleased to support this much-needed appeal. We hear daily from people who are struggling to pay their energy bills and the devastating impact this has on their lives. We have found that two-fifths of people affected by fuel poverty have been forced to cut back on food or skip meals and over two-thirds have experienced stress
“We urge anyone who is worried about their situation to visit www.turn2us.org.uk where they can check what welfare benefits and charitable grants they may be eligible for and find further sources of help.”
If you want to help, you can donate to our Surviving Winter appeal here.
