News

Bishop Peter Hancock and Michael Eavis Support Surviving Winter

November 13, 2014

On average there are around 300 winter-related deaths in Somerset each year, the majority of which are people over 65 years old.  Across Somerset it is estimated there are almost 5,000 pensioner households living in fuel poverty and the impact of cold weather and cold homes brings unseen misery and suffering to hundreds of people in our communities, sometimes with fatal consequences.

The appeal has received endorsement from the Bishop and Bath and Wells, Peter Hancock, who added:

“Every so often a campaign comes along that just makes sense.  The Surviving Winter Campaign is one of those. People who feel they can live without their winter fuel payment donate the money to help those struggling to pay fuel bills this winter. With increasing food and fuel bills some of our elderly neighbours are facing the stark choice of whether to heat or eat.  That shouldn’t happen. Whilst not at the age to qualify for the fuel payment just yet, I will be donating to the campaign and encourage others to do so too.”      

The campaign has also received backing from Michael Eavis, who has supported the appeal since its inception in 2010. He said:

“This campaign appealed to me right from the start. I’m so pleased that it’s spread across the country with such amazing success. I think if all the people that can afford to buy their own fuel gave their allowance to Somerset Community Foundation, thousands of our pensioners would have a much happier Christmas. I’m very happy to donate my Winter Fuel Payment to Somerset Community Foundation again this year.”

To donate or find out more, please click here or call 01749 344949


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