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Press Release

Age UK comment on FPAG annual report and announcement of green deal consultation

24 November 2011

Michelle Mitchell, Charity Director of Age UK said:

“It is deplorable that over 5 million households, half of which are occupied by older people, are living in fuel poverty. A number of these households are cutting back on either heating or food to help make ends meet at a time of escalating fuel prices. They face a stark choice which could put their health at risk.

Fuel poverty has a devastating effect on people's mental and physical wellbeing and cold can and does kill.

“We agree with the Fuel Poverty Advisory Group report that the only sure way to help people manage rising energy costs is to help them properly insulate their homes and reduce their need for energy – especially for households in fuel poverty.

“We have been waiting a long time for details of the Green Deal so welcome the announcement of a consultation from the Department of Energy and Climate Change but still need reassurance that vulnerable older customers will be protected from cold calling and hard pressure selling of insulation schemes.

“The ECO (Energy Companies Obligations) scheme will be the only one in England helping fuel poor – the Government must understand the urgency of this issue and the impact it has on older people.”



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Age UK

Age UK

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