As winter approaches and fuel costs continue to rise, more of us are trying to save energy and reduce our household fuel bills.  If you live in the Ballymoney Council area you may be interested to hear about the Warmer Ways to Better Health scheme which provides a package of heating, insulation and energy efficiency measures free of charge to those who qualify. 

The scheme is a joint initiative co-ordinated between NIE’s Energy Efficiency Programme, the Department of Social Development, the Northern Investing for Health Partnership and Ballymoney Council. 

Anita Kelly, Energy Efficiency Adviser for Ballymoney, Moyle and Coleraine Councils said “The Warmer Ways to Better Health scheme helps people to reduce their energy bills.  It’s all about using less energy, which means lower energy bills.  This scheme gives homes an energy makeover, everything a house needs to be nice and cosy whilst using as little energy as possible”.

Q. What is available?

FREE Oil or main gas central heating system and insulation.

This is open to owner occupiers or private tenants who have no central heating or use Economy 7 or solid fuel and have an annual income of £12,000 or less for a single person or £18,000 or less for a couple or lone parent family.  As well as this, there must be someone in the house who is over the age of 60 OR under the age of 16 OR has a disability or a long-term health condition such as asthma, arthritis or diabetes.

FREE Cavity wall and loft insulation

This is open to owner occupiers or private tenants who meet ONE of the following criteria:

v    Are single with an annual income of £12,000 or less

v    Are a couple or lone parent family with an annual income of £18,000 or less

v    There is someone at home of any age who has a disability

v    There is someone at home with long-term health problems.

Q. How do I apply for the scheme or find out more information?

Further details can be obtained from Anita Kelly, Energy Efficiency Adviser on 028 2766 0257 or by emailing warmer.homes@ballymoney.gov.uk.    The closing date for referrals is 31st October 2008.  Places are limited and are allocated on a first come first served basis.  All information will be treated as strictly confidential.

Q. How can I find out other ways of saving energy and money?

For other energy saving tips and advice, that don’t have to cost anything, please contact the Energy Saving Trust 0800 512 012 www.energysavingtrust.org.uk or www.nie-yourenergy.co.uk/tips.php

For more information please contact:
Jackie Frazer or Anita Kelly
Ballymoney Borough Council
14 Charles street
Ballymoney
BT53 6DZ

Tel: 028 2766 0257 or email: warmerhomes@ballymoney.gov.uk