In Barnet, approximately 10% of households are in fuel poverty, and homes account for 40% of the borough’s emissions, making energy efficiency a key priority…reports Asian Lite News
As energy prices soar, Barnet Council has unveiled a new campaign to help residents tackle rising energy bills while advancing the borough’s net-zero emissions goal for 2042. Partnering with Groundwork London’s Green Doctor service, the council is offering free, tailored home energy efficiency support, particularly for vulnerable households.
This initiative comes at a critical time as the ongoing cost-of-living crisis and a projected 10% increase in the energy price cap this winter are expected to leave many families struggling to heat their homes. In Barnet, approximately 10% of households are in fuel poverty, and homes account for 40% of the borough’s emissions, making energy efficiency a key priority.
A council spokesperson explained, “We understand that managing rising energy costs can be difficult, particularly for our vulnerable residents. By partnering with Green Doctors, we’re able to provide accessible, practical advice that can make a real difference in people’s lives and help us work towards our goal of a net-zero Barnet by 2042. We encourage all eligible residents to take advantage of this free support and make a positive change for their homes and the environment.”
The Green Doctor service offers a range of support options for eligible households, including:
• Free home energy visits: Tailored guidance provided in-person or over the phone.
• Energy-saving kits: Free items like LED light bulbs, draught-proofing materials, and radiator reflectors.
• Personalised advice: Tips on reducing bills, switching suppliers, and accessing financial support.
• Energy efficiency guidance: Expert insights on insulation, efficient heating, and renewable energy options.
• Signposting to additional support: Assistance connecting with government schemes and other local resources.
Eligibility criteria include households with residents over 60, individuals with disabilities or health conditions worsened by cold, pregnant individuals, families with children under 10, and those with an annual income below £21,000.
Daniel Brittle, Service Manager at Groundwork London’s Green Doctor program, emphasized the importance of the initiative: “Green Doctors are committed to supporting households across London with practical, accessible energy-saving advice. This partnership with Barnet Council allows us to extend our expertise to even more residents who are facing the challenge of rising energy costs.”
Adding momentum to the campaign, B&M retailers have stepped in as sponsors. A spokesperson for B&M shared, “We’re thrilled to support this campaign, helping Barnet residents save money and reduce their energy bills during what is a particularly challenging time. At B&M, we believe in giving back to our communities, and this partnership allows us to support families in need and contribute to the borough’s sustainability goals.”
As an added incentive, residents who refer themselves for the service by February 28, 2025, will be entered into a prize draw to win one of four £100 B&M gift vouchers.
The campaign aligns with Barnet’s broader efforts to support households in financial difficulty, including the Money Worries initiative, which features an online financial calculator to help residents optimize their budgets. More information is available at Barnet Council’s benefits page.
With this initiative, Barnet Council aims to empower residents to take control of their energy consumption, reduce household emissions, and stay warm through the colder months ahead.
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