The British Gas ‘here to HELP’ programme is a groundbreaking community initiative launched in July 2002. It provides a ‘one stop shop’ solution to household poverty and seeks to support the 4 million vulnerable households in Great Britain who are deemed to be in 'fuel poverty'. The main causes of 'fuel poverty' are poor energy efficiency, low incomes and high fuel bills which can result in needless winter deaths, illness and poor quality of life.
‘here to HELP’ is aimed at addressing some of the problems associated with fuel poverty through delivery of a tailored package of support which is free of charge. This includes energy efficiency measures, access to benefits assessments and introduction to charity partner services.
British Gas, in consultation with local agencies, sought to identify an area of high deprivation in which to establish a ‘flagship’ ‘here to HELP’ zone for Wales. Rhondda Cynon Taf was selected as being one of the most deprived areas in Wales and the scheme was launched in October 2002.
The financial value of the energy efficiency work carried out in Rhondda Cynon Taf was, on average, £282.60 per household. Many households have also benefited from additional income generated via a benefits assessment and over the course of the scheme 51 referrals were made to charity partners.
As a result of energy efficiency measures installed in the eligible properties, these households will be warmer and more comfortable, with lower bills and reductions in energy consumption.
