Citizens Advice works with Rotary Club and East Grinstead Lions to keep residents warm

The clubs have been donating to the Wenceslas campaign, which offers people on low incomes financial support for their energy bills.

Citizens Advice holds and distributes the funds and is working throughout the pandemic to give residents the advice that they need.

“No-one should have to choose between heating and eating,” said Emma Cross, CEO of Citizens Advice in West Sussex (North, South, East).

“And no-one should have to worry about keeping their home warm.”

“It’s great to be able to re-assure local residents that there is help available,” she said, adding that many people have been worried about paying bills because of the pressures of working and schooling from home.

Help offered by CAWS can include: checking whether there are grants or money available to help pay bills or increase income, making sure people are on the right energy tariff, and supporting people to switch to a better tariff if possible.

CAWS also tells residents how to be more energy-efficient and can help people get fuel vouchers in an emergency to prevent them from being cut off.

They are also able to offer debt advice.

John Baker at Sussex Vale Rotary said: “Rotary is all about helping others. Project Wenceslas allows those in receipt of a Winter Fuel Allowance, but who do not need it, to donate it via Sussex Vale Rotary.”

“We are pleased that Citizens Advice has agreed to hold and distribute all funds raised to those needing help,” he added.

People who are worried about paying their energy and utility bills can contact Citizens Advice via web chat at www.advicewestsussex.org.uk or they can call the advice line on 0808 278 7969 (freephone, Monday to Friday 9am-4.30pm).

There are face-to-face and video appointments available as well.