Up to one-fifth Warn Front funding going unclaimed

Up to a fifth of the funding allocated for the Warm Front scheme could be going unclaimed, according to Consumer Focus and National Energy Action.

After the government scheme was oversubscribed in 2010, this winter has seen a decline in applications and it could face a £30 million underspend.

This money could help around 16,000 households receiving heating and insulation help, the organisations reported.

There could be a number of reasons for the lack of take-up, such as the government failing to advertise the scheme widely enough or that the mild weather has meant many households have not thought about seeking the extra support.

Audrey Gallacher, director of energy at Consumer Focus, commented: "The poorest pensioners and families will have been hit particularly hard by high energy prices. Many are living in cold homes, which could put their health at risk.

"It is very disappointing that people who need Warm Front help to make their homes warmer and cheaper to heat are likely to miss out. We'd urge anyone who thinks they may be eligible to put in a claim."

Funding for the year ends on March 31st.

Posted by Emily Thomas

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For more information please see: Warm Front