Centre: Energise Sussex Coast’s Kate Meakin working with local residents as part of the Warmer Crowhurst project.

Worried about keeping warm this winter?

If you are struggling financially and need help to keep your heating bills under control, Kate Meakin from Energise Sussex Coast shares some useful information.

Back in March National Energy Action (NEA) warned us that this year, out of the estimated 27.8 million households in the UK, over 6.5 million could be in fuel poverty following the current cost of living and energy crisis. That is nearly one quarter of households. In the last seven months, this figure is expected to have gone up dramatically. Research by University of York predicts that more than three-quarters of households in the UK, or 53 million people, will experience fuel poverty by January 2023.

This means precarious finances are no longer an issue confined to those defined as ‘vulnerable’. Everyone is feeling the pinch – families, those living on their own, the elderly, and the young, all in our communities.

Local help is available

Energise Sussex Coast offers in-person appointments to look at bringing down bills, saving not only energy but also water and accessing support. Its small team of experienced energy advisors offer practical free advice on reducing energy consumption and thus energy costs. Its advice can lead to bills being reduced or debt cancelled.

“What we are seeing repeatedly are overly complicated energy bills and confusing direct debits”, says Fiona, one of the energy advisors who has been in her role since 2018 and recently completed City & Guilds Level 3 Award in Energy Awareness to consolidate and expand on her energy advice expertise. Some cases can take several weeks for energy advisers to research and contact utility providers on their clients’ behalf. Some clients are in contact for years due to recurring issues with energy providers.

It can be a harrowing experience, with need for emotional support. Fiona continues: “Do not suffer in silence, there is help available. We are a friendly caring team and happy to help.”

What is Energise Sussex Coast?

Energise Sussex Coast is an energy cooperative and a community benefit society which serves the area of East Sussex coast. Tackling fuel poverty and providing energy advice have been at the centre of our activities since our inception in 2012. We are recognised locally as a trusted advisor helping keep people warm and well in their homes.

In 2021, we recorded an average financial benefit of £409 for our clients seeking energy advice. Our experienced team of energy advisors, working in partnership with the Hastings Advice & Representation Centre (HARC), helped 850 households save over £ 560,000 in financial benefits.

These achievements are being recognised – this year we have been nominated for the Community Energy Awards in the Fuel Poverty Action category. The awards are organised by Community Energy England – an organisation that helps to put people at the heart of the energy system and acts as the voice of the community energy sector.

The energy advice service offered by Energise Sussex Coast is funded through grants, such as the one provided by British Gas Energy Trust. Businesses, local authorities, and individuals wishing to support this critical free service to the local communities in East Sussex are welcome to get in touch with Energise Sussex Coast by emailing Kate Meakin at kate@energisesussexcoast.co.uk.

For more information about Energise Sussex Coast, visit our website.

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