Home Heat Helpline available as the freezing weather hits

With the cold snap set to continue, Knowsley residents are reminded that they can get help with their fuel bills through the Home Heat Helpline.

The helpline is a free, impartial and confidential service that connects people on low incomes with support including advice, rebates and grants for insulation and new boilers.

Residents can call the Home Heat Helpline on 0800 33 66 99 and speak to one of the friendly advisors who will provide advice on reducing energy bills.

The service can also be accessed online by visiting www.homeheathelpline.org.uk where a new energy checker will help to show who is entitled to help.

Knowsley Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Economy and Skills, Cllr Dave Lonergan, said: "During these cold conditions, many local residents may be concerned about staying warm.

“I would really encourage those people to call the Home Heat Helpline and seek advice. I would also ask people to look out for neighbours, friends or relatives who may be in difficulty and make sure that they are aware of the Home Heat Helpline."

There are also some other simple steps people can take in reducing their energy, including:-

• turning your thermostat down by 1˚C could cut your heating bills by up to 10 per cent and save you around £100 a year.
• turn radiators down in rooms which you only use occasionally
• switch your lights off when you're not using them
• turn appliances like TVs and phone chargers off at the wall rather than leaving them on standby when they're not being used
• replace normal light bulbs with energy efficient ones
• regularly defrost your freezer to make sure it's operating at full efficiency
• draw curtains over windows at night to provide insulation for the room
• move furniture away from radiators and heaters to allow heat to circulate around the room

 Home Heat Helpline: 0800 33 66 99 or www.homeheathelpline.org.uk

 Follow the Home Heat Helpline on Twitter for added advice and updates @HHHelpline