Looking Ahead: Supporting Pensioners Through the Cold Months
At Craggs Energy, we’re already thinking ahead to next winter, and especially about how we can continue supporting our older customers when the temperature drops.
Last year was tough for many. The withdrawal of the Winter Fuel Payment left a lot of people unsure about how they would afford to heat their homes. We heard from customers across Yorkshire, Lancashire and the North West who were left feeling anxious and stretched; some even faced the difficult decision between heating and eating. That’s not a choice anyone should have to make.
The reality is stark: in the UK, cold-related illnesses contribute to around 400,000 avoidable deaths each year. It’s a statistic that highlights just how serious this issue is and why ensuring people are able to keep warm isn’t just about comfort but about health and safety too.
We took action where we could. We lowered the minimum heating oil order for customers of state pension age, making it possible to order as little as 300 litres. This means a significantly lower upfront cost that’s around 35% less than a standard 500-litre delivery, making it more manageable for those on fixed incomes.
We’re also proud to be donating 25p from every delivery to Age UK Calderdale & Kirklees up to the end of June. This fund will help build a bit of a “war chest” for the colder months, providing support to local people who might otherwise struggle.
In other positive news the Government has announced the potential return of Winter Fuel Payments. The suggested amounts of £200 for households with a pensioner under 80, and £300 for those over 80 could make a real difference. But like many others, we’re waiting to hear more detail. Who will qualify? When will the payments arrive? These are important questions, and the sooner there’s clarity, the better.
In the meantime, we’re continuing to look out for our community.
For those concerned about the cost of a large heating oil bill in one go, our Cosy Heating Club is a great alternative. Members can spread the cost across the year with a monthly direct debit, helping to take the sting out of winter and make budgeting simpler.
And for those wanting extra peace of mind, we also offer CosyConnect, our remote fuel monitor. These clever little devices let us track your tank level and make sure you never run out, which is especially important during cold weather when access might be difficult, or deliveries are in high demand.
We’ll also continue with our Cold Weather Priority Scheme, ensuring that those over 75, or anyone with a medical condition that makes them vulnerable to cold, are prioritised for deliveries during cold snaps.
At Craggs Energy, we believe heating your home is a basic need, not a luxury. That’s why we’ll keep doing what we can to support our community through the seasons ahead.
If you or someone you know could benefit from these schemes, please get in touch with our friendly team. We’re here to help.
