Heating advice meeting to be staged in Keynsham

People in Keynsham can get advice on heating and insulation grants at a special meeting later this month.

Residents are invited by MP Dan Norris to find out if they qualify for Government grants to help keep their homes warmer and more energy-efficient.

He has been organising Financial Support Entitlement events across the area for a number of years. The next one in Keynsham will be at The Key Centre in Charlton Road, on Friday,  March 26  (2.15 to 3.30pm)

As well as getting information about Government 'Warm Front' grants, the Labour MP has organised for a number of other experts to be on hand to advise on other services and financial entitlements that people might qualify for.

"My experience of organising these events regularly for a number of years shows people who come along are often not aware of important services and financial benefits they are entitled to receive,"said Mr Norris.

"It's vital, especially at the present time when we are emerging from global recession, that everyone I represent is fully aware of their entitlements. When you have paid into 'the system' for years, through taxes and other contributions, good quality information about services that are available to you and your family is really important. I want to ensure people claim what is rightfully theirs.

"Some people are comfortable finding information online or by making telephone calls, but these events give a great opportunity for people to get confidential, face-to-face advice that is personal to them - in the warm, over a cup of tea or coffee. And when it's necessary to fill out a form to claim something, help is easily at hand."

Since the Government's Warm Front scheme began ten years ago, well over £2 million has been invested in North East Somerset, making over 1,800 homes warmer and more energy-efficient.

"More help is available, and people who come along on Friday 26 March will be able to find out if they qualify, and what to do next," said Dan.

In addition to Warm Front, staff from a wide range of other organisations will be there, offering confidential, professional and impartial advice. Areas covered include; Pension Credits, Income-based Jobseeker Allowance, Child Tax Credits, Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit.

The other organisations due to attend include Citizens' Advice Bureau, Age Concern, The Pensions Service, Care and Repair. The local Fire Service will also be there, offering householders free smoke alarms and home visits to carry out vital safety checks.

"If you're unable to make it to this event, you can still call Warm Front on freephone 0800 316 6014. As well as finding out if you are eligible for the Warm Front scheme, you can have a free and confidential benefit check to see if you are missing out on any entitlements."