11 Dec Charities and services here for you over Winter 2024

No sooner had the ink dried on the words “mild winter” printed in this column last week than the forecast changed and the temperatures dropped.

Storm Darragh thundered in, bringing in powerful winds and heralding a different weather pattern, featuring more rain and colder temperatures with little respite through to Christmas.

Agencies and charities across the Bay were ready and have been seeking out the most vulnerable to ensure that they can keep warm through the worst of it. And this is just the beginning.

It is not unusual in the Bay for the mercury to stay above freezing at the year’s end, waiting until well into the New Year for the freeze to hit, the advantage of living near the sea in a sheltered bay.

But a couple of degrees can make all the difference if you are already vulnerable and that is when strong communities like we have in the Bay come into their own with neighbours checking in on each other and doing all they can.

It is not just loneliness that can cause problems for some over the festive period; it is also about keeping homes heated and being able to put hot food on the table. A hot drink or a cup of soup goes a long way not to mention the kind words and thoughts that accompany them.

Age UK Torbay has been working hard to ensure that all who are entitled to pension credit are in receipt of it after estimates showed that across the country, between 720,000 and 888,000 people are eligible but have not yet made a claim, and they only have until December 21^st to do so.

To request a free benefit check, contact Ague UK Torbay by phone at 01803 555181 or by email: [email protected].

Torbay Council have also produced a leaflet entitled Keeping Winter Well in Torbay that is packed with handy tips to keep everyone safe over the next few months such as managing dampness, mould and cold in your home:

• Keep all rooms that are in use heated to reduce condensation
• Prevent heat loss through walls, ceilings and windows
• Make sure vents and air holes are not blocked so moisture can get out
• Reduce excess moisture by using extractor fans, cover pans whilst cooking and try not to dry clothes indoors if possible

It also contains energy-saving tips such as:

• Trying to keep the heating at 18°C in the main living area
• Closing curtains to keep the heat in
• Have regular warm food and drinks (and if you struggling for food call the Torbay Community Helpline on 01803 446022)
• Wear layers of clothing and keep your feet warm
• Draught-proof your home using draught-proof strips

As revealed in last week’s column, our Community Builders have been training to help Beat the Freeze and have been working with another charity called ECOE, whose aim is to help reduce energy bills as well as provide energy savings for low-income households.

Find your Community Builder or call the Torbay Community Helpline on 01803 446022.

Through their impartial advice, ECOE can help you save money on energy with great information and support around reducing heat loss and improving efficiency in your home.

For more information contact ECOE: Email [email protected], Freephone 0800 772 3617 or www.ecoe.org.uk.

It is a sad fact that we are painfully aware that for some families and individuals, this time of year is the worst as they choose between food, festivities and fuel, and that is why so many agencies in the Bay are doing all they can. They can’t wave a magic wand but they can provide much-needed help and support.

Other helpful numbers to keep you safe and well this winter are more specific but may well apply to you. For instance, if you are facing rent or mortgage difficulties, then call the council’s housing team on 01803 208723

If you have problems paying your council tax and you are on a low income, you may qualify for 100% assistance. Find out if you qualify by calling 01803 207201.

And finally, always on hand is Citizens Advice Torbay who can be called on 0808 2787859.

Please don’t suffer in silence or wait for things to get worse as they surely will if you do nothing. There are a lot of people here in the Bay who are here for you, not least your Good Neighbours. Reach out.