£800,000 in new funding has been secured to help a Lancaster charity assist local people with their energy use.
Citizens Advice North Lancashire has been given the cash from the Energy Industry Voluntary Redress Scheme to continue their Energy Matters project for two years, working in partnership with Citizens Advice Preston & District and Green Rose Community Interest Company.
The Energy Matters project will support residents throughout the year with comprehensive energy advice and practical help to keep homes warm, comfortable and affordable.
The partnership brings together expertise from across the region, including Citizens Advice North Lancashire and Citizens Advice Preston & District, to provide trusted advice on managing energy debt, switching suppliers, and accessing support schemes.
Meanwhile Green Rose, a social enterprise operating across all 14 Lancashire districts, will offer households free advice on energy efficiency and home sustainability.
Together, the organisations will work together to provide year-round support including guidance on finding the best energy tariffs, tackling damp and mould, understanding available grants for home improvements, and face-to-face assistance tailored to individual circumstances.
The project will also fund valuable research work to better understand local energy needs, identify barriers that prevent people from accessing support, and measure the impact of services on residents' lives.
Joanna Young, CEO of Citizens Advice North Lancashire, said: "We're absolutely delighted to receive this funding and to be strengthening our strong partnership with the Green Rose team, who we've worked alongside for years to keep our residents warm and well. It's wonderful to now be collaborating with our Preston Citizens Advice colleagues too.
‘’Every person has the right to a warm, cosy home, and this project means we can reach even more people across Lancashire who need support."
Georgina Sommerville, Director at Green Rose, said: "Everyone deserves to feel safe and comfortable in their own home.
‘’Through Energy Matters, we're ensuring that Lancashire residents have access to the support and knowledge they need to create warm, sustainable homes they can afford. This partnership allows us to combine our strengths and make a real difference to people's lives, especially during these challenging times."
Anyone worried about energy bills can call 0330 606 1488 and choose Option 3 to talk to the council-backed Cosy Homes Advice Team who can offer a range of help and support based on your location and circumstances.
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