Energy Efficiency Advice Centre (www.energysavingtrust.org.uk)

The first approach for advice should be to call 0800 512 012 (for Lewes ring Vikky Webb 01273 484330). This number automatically routes to the nearest advice centre which provides free andimpartial advice on a range of energy related issues. They can advise on national and local energy efficiency grants & provide referrals to relevant schemes. They manage grant schemes for several local councils in West and East Sussex. They also advise whether a person is eligible for Warmfront grants.

Warmfront (www.Warmfront.co.uk)

Provides a grant for insulation and heating measures of up to £2,700, except where oil central heating is being installed or repaired where a maximum of £4,000 will apply. Can include: loft and cavity wall insulation, draught-proofing, boiler replacement, new central heating, low energy light bulbs. They will also do a confidential Benefits Entitlement Check which can be very useful (call 0800 072 9006).

The following people may be entitled to a Warm Front grant:

• Householders over 60 and in receipt of an income related benefit
• Householders pregnant, or, with children under 16 and in receipt of an income related benefit
• Householders in receipt of a disability benefit (this includes Disability Living Allowance (which is important to mention)

They are available between 8am and 6pm, Monday to Friday on 0800 316 6011. They offer the RNID Typetalk service for people who are deaf or have speech and hearing impairment: 18001 08459 06 07 08

Energywatch (www.energywatch.org.uk)

This is the gas & electric watchdog. They provide free & impartial advice on how to change supplier, free services for vulnerable clients, and lots of information on social tariffs. Freephone 08459 06 07 08.

Energywatch oversee the Priority Services Register (PSR). This was set up by gas and electricity suppliers to offer free services designed to make heating and powering the home easier, such as:

• Password scheme  A unique password can be set up which will be used every time company staff visit their home.

• Exclusive offers  Some energy suppliers can offer lower tariffs to their customers on the PSR

• Advanced notice  If the electricity supply needs to be turned off for planned work extra notice will be given.

• Special assistance  If the gas supply needs to be turned off or disrupted for safety reasons alternative cooking and heating facilities will be   provided.

• Meter reading  If no one in the household is capable of reading a gas or electricity meter the supplier can arrange for the meter to be read   every quarter and for bills to be based on these readings.

• Moving meters  If it is difficult to reach or read a meter the supplier will consider moving it to a more convenient position free of charge.

• Bill nominee scheme  Bill copies can be sent to a friend, relative or carers address for checking.

• Services for the visibly impaired  Customers can access bills in Braille, large print or on tape

• Special medical or communication needs  Electricity distributors will ensure the energy user is included on a register of people who,
  because of special medical or communication needs, would be vulnerable in the event of supply disruption. This includes hoists, stair lifts,
  nebulisers etc.

Energy Companies

The major companies all have charitable trusts that will provide funds to help with fuel debts (fuel debt grants). Some will also cover other debts too. However the easiest way to apply for them is actually through the local Citizens Advice Bureau (www.citizensadvice.org.uk for your local bureau).

Department of Work and Pensions (or Pensions Service)

They will visit anyone over 60 (in East or West Sussex) in their home. One of their aims is to combat poverty for pensioners by. They provide personal advice & identify benefits which older people are eligible for and will help with filling in forms.

Local Authorities

Local authorities may provide grants for insulation and heating measures (if they do not, try Warmfront). Information is available from their websites (or email their energy advisor if their is insufficient information).

www.hastings.gov.uk (Maureen Brown. Tel: 01424 451356, email: Mbrown@hastings.gov.uk
www.rother.gov.uk (presently without someone in position but try Mark Randolph. Tel: 01424 787562 email: Mark.randolph@rother.gov.uk)
www.Eastbourne.gov.uk (Nick Adlam. Tel: 01323 415963, email: Nick.adlam@eastbourne.gov.uk)
www.lewes.gov.uk (Matthew Bird. Tel: 01273 474968, email: matthew.bird@lewes.gov.uk)

Details of West Sussex to follow.