South West has highest rates of death during the winter months.

More residents die from living in a cold home in the South West than any other region.  An estimated 43,900 excess winter deaths occurred in England and Wales in 2014/15 but the highest excess winter mortality index was in the South West. was the highest number since 1999/00, with 27% more people dying in the winter months compared with the non-winter months.

For the last 18 months free help has been available to provide eligible households with free gas central heating, however this free help comes to an end early October so householders must act fast to have a chance of benefitting before this Winter.

The CosyDevon Central Heating Fund is supported by the local authorities, and managed by their scheme partners E.ON, AgilityEco, National Energy Action (NEA) and Integrated Energy Services. It offers eligible residents a new connection to the gas grid, a complete gas central heating system including a new energy efficient boiler, radiators in every room and room thermostats.

West Devon Borough Council’s, Lead Member for Customer First, Cllr Jeff Moody said: “It’s really great to hear how CosyDevon’s work is improving the lives of our local residents.  I encourage those who think they are eligible, to apply for this wonderful heating fund before it closes.”

If you want to find out more about the Central Heating Fund call 0800 612 9301 or apply online at tinyurl.com/cosydevon. Get in touch now, and avoid struggling to keep warm this winter.

To be eligible, you need to own or privately rent your home and not have an existing central heating system. People living in the house must either be on a low income of less than £16,010 gross per annum and referred by a health professional due to a long-term health condition exacerbated by the cold; or in receipt of income related benefits. Plus the property must be close to the gas mains.