With people facing vast increases in energy costs many will be struggling to pay their bills. Knowing the real health risks that people face if they are cold, Cwmbran Community Council has decided to support a local energy advice and voucher scheme and distribute free blankets to people in need in Cwmbran.
The Council has partnered with the Citizens Advice Bureau to help. An initial £10k from the Council is supporting CAB so they can step up their services in Cwmbran. CAB gives advice on debt and energy costs and where needed, provides energy vouchers to help households pay their bills. Cllr Kebba Manneh, Leader of the Council said, ‘We are really pleased that we can partner up with CAB in this way. If anyone is struggling with their prepayment meter top ups, or falling behind on monthly bills, go and see CAB in Cwmbran Library in Gwent Square and they will help.’
New research by the University of South Wales shows how difficult it is for the body to function properly in room temperatures below 18 degrees without wrapping up warmly. It makes doing homework far more difficult, increases the risk of stroke and heart attack to the elderly and vulnerable and makes life unpleasant for everyone. But people in Cwmbran are having to make that choice and turn their heating down or off. So, the Community Council has bought 1,200 fleece blankets for Cwmbran residents who need them.
The free blankets, provided at discount by Promocorp Ltd, together with free socks and stuff sacks can be picked up from the Council offices and other organisations across Cwmbran just by showing evidence of a Cwmbran address.
Chair of the Council, Cllr Anthony Bird commented, ‘The Council is determined to help and is grateful to Promocorp for their support. It’s very sad that many households would struggle to find the money for additional blankets in this cost-of-living crisis, but we know that it’s happening. If you know of anyone who could be going cold at home, please let them know about the support that is on offer from the Council, CAB and other organisations.’
For further information contact Cwmbran Community Council on 01633849070 or cwmbrancc@cwmbran.gov.uk
Scientific information from BBC report
BBC News – Staying warm: What does an unheated room do to your body?
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-63602501
Places to pick up your blankets
Cwmbran Community Council Offices, Ventnor Rd, Old Cwmbran;
Cwmbran Centre for Young People, CAB at Cwmbran Library, Age Connect, Co Star and many other organisations throughout Cwmbran