Up to 700 Richmond residents on low income who are at risk of living in fuel poverty will be thrown a lifeline by the council this winter.
Those eligible could benefit from the £60k that is being put aside by the council to help with heating bills.
The Richmond Council grant scheme was launched last year and 696 residents were handed a small grant to help keep their eyes warm.
“I am delighted to be able to confirm that the council will yet again be helping some of the poorest residents in the borough with their fuel bills this winter,” said Richmond Council Deputy Leader Geoffrey Samuel.
“The seemingly endless increase in the cost of gas and electricity has put enormous pressure on people’s budgets and this scheme offers real help at a time when it is most needed.”
The scheme will be announced officially by Councillor Samuel at the full council meeting next week.
There has been a slight decrease in the grant’s budget when compared to last year, but will still be able to help those in need with £85.
This was done in order to make sure the grant will be able to continue for the next few years.
Councillor Samuel said: “We will not stand idly by while people suffer this winter.”
Details of the scheme will be published across the borough and leaflets will be sent to every household.
Application forms will soon be made available on the council’s website, public notice boards and libraries.
Picture courtesy of Buffa, with thanks
