This is a text-only version of an article first published on Tuesday, 28 October 2014. Information shown on this page may no longer be current.
PEOPLE on low incomes are struggling to make ends meet, facing declining incomes and rapidly rising food and fuel costs.
For increasing numbers the choice this winter will be to 'heat or eat. 'Almost four million households in the UK are officially classed as being in 'fuel poverty. ' This can only get worse as gas and electricity prices continue to increase.
With elderly people particularly vulnerable during the winter months, fuel poverty is a significant factor contributing to illness and death throughout the winter.
Vulnerable customers who are put on prepayment meters (as an alternative to disconnection) are particularly at risk.
Being unable to top-up their meters because they can't afford to puts them at risk of 'self-disconnection', being left without heat or power for hours, days or weeks. Eat or Heat? A Justice Forum on fuel poverty.
18th November 9. 30am Wesley Memorial Church OxfordThis round table event chaired by Alison Webster, Social Responsibility Adviser to the Diocese of Oxford, is a joint initiative of the Oxford Diocesan Board of Mission and the national campaigning body Church Action on Poverty. Through a range of national speakers and local projects the event will explore: Who is affected by fuel poverty in our own communities? What more should Government and the energy companies be doing to tackle fuel poverty? What practical support is available to people to help reduce their bills, or to help with energy efficiency measures? Doors open at 9. 30am for welcome with tea/coffee.
Event finishes with a free lunch at 1pm with time for networking. To book your place please click on this link which will take you to the Eventbrite booking website.