Campaigns against the 'Big Six' energy companies and for the nationalisation of energy companies have taken off recently as the issue of fuel poverty becomes more dire. Essential if the long term problem is to be tackled.
Meanwhile there is an immediate need by some individuals and families for help with their fuel bills as they face the grim choice of whether to 'eat or heat'. Brent Citizens Advice Bureau and the Tricycle Theatre are again running their Winter Warmth Fund which is now in its fifth year. To date it has raised £14,469 plus £2,619.04 in Gift Aid.
The Fund has provided 101 awards for a total £13,714 to people receiving benefits, elderly people, people with disabilities and families with young chidren.
All payments are made direct to the utility suppliers to help reduce gas and electricity arrears.
Among the donations are those from better off pensioners who donate their Winter Fuel Allowance to those they consider worse off.
Cheques should be made payable to Brent Citizens' Advice Bureau (Winter Fuel) and sent to:
Brent Citizens' Advice Bureau,
270-272 High Road,
Willesden
London NW10 2EY