A new report released by NEA in partnership with Citizens Advice Newcastle highlights the current context of the energy crisis and its impact upon households across the North East of England and provides a snapshot of fuel poverty in the region.

Around 6.6 million UK households are in the grip of fuel poverty, unable to afford to heat their homes to the temperature needed to keep warm and healthy, falling into debt and suffering health issues as a result.

Connecting Homes for Health pilot project combined funding to install free gas connections and central heating systems in over 100 properties in the North East of England whose residents were on low incomes and at risk of cold-related ill health.

The Connecting Homes for Health pilot project was delivered by fuel poverty charity NEA, Northern Gas Networks and YES Energy Solutions. In what’s believed to be an industry first, it combined funding from the Fuel Poor Network Extension Scheme and Warm Home Discount Industry Initiatives to install free gas connections and central heating systems in over 100 properties in the North East of England whose residents were on low incomes and at risk of cold-related ill health. Residents also benefited from support and energy advice on how to use their new systems effectively, improve energy efficiency and reduce fuel bills.