Warning sounded on fuel poverty in Bognor

Top environmental health officer Paul Unsworth is worried more households around Bognor Regis will suffer from fuel poverty this winter.

Mr Unsworth is concerned a combination of homes being energy-inefficient, the high cost of fuel, low incomes and under-occupancy will see many people in the town face a tough six months.

In the UK, fuel poverty is said to occur when a household needs to spend more than ten per cent of its income on total fuel use in order

to heat its home to an adequate standard of warmth.

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National Energy Action estimated the energy price hikes in 2008 may have pushed up to one in five UK households into fuel poverty.

Areas such as central Bognor which are acknowledged as suffering some of the worst deprivation in the south east are likely to be even worse affected.

Mr Unsworth, Arun District Council's head of environmental health, said: "Environmental health services play a key role in tackling fuel poverty.

"This is through the provision of information, advice and the

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awarding of discretionary grants for home energy efficiency work.

"Around a third of all heat lost in an uninsulated home is through the walls. Insulating cavity walls reduces heat loss in winter and keeps you cool in summer. It can save around 115 a year on your fuel bill.

"If you haven't already started, there is no better time to make your property more energy-efficient.

"Significant discounts on products and services that can help you save energy are available from all energy suppliers and most local district councils."

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The district council launched a renewable advice service on July 1 which is designed to take the extra step in helping local residents wishing to reduce their fuel bills and carbon footprint.

Visit www.arun.gov.uk/energy for more information or contact the council's energy efficiency officer on 01903 737555.

But Mr Unsworth added it was important homes were kept warm enough to help maintain good health even if people were worried about their fuel bills.

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