Andrew Stephenson MP is calling on people in Pendle to plan ahead for winter and start saving money on their energy bills. While more than 44,000 people called the Home Heat Helpline this winter for help with their bills and leaky homes, recent research, commissioned by the Home Heat Helpline, shows that nearly half of those eligible for help didn’t claim.*

Andrew Stephenson MP said, “The Home Heat Helpline will help many across Pendle to deal with the adverse weather we experienced this year, it is important to make sure that anyone who can receive this kind of support does so.”

“Now that we at last are seeing some sun, this is absolutely the right time to get ready to keep warm next winter and to start saving money. Don’t wait until it’s cold to see if you’re eligible. Claim what is yours.” said Angela Knight, Chief Executive of Energy UK, which runs the helpline.

Whatever the energy problem is, people should get in contact with their energy company right now, or ring the Home Heat Helpline if they prefer.”

With next winter possibly only five months away, Andrew is urging people to start planning NOW with five simple summer savers.

1.    Call the Home Heat Helpline - find out what help you might be eligible for and how to save money on your energy bill.

2.    Apply for your Warm Home Discount – all the major energy suppliers give £135 off to customers who are struggling with their bills and are over 70, living with long-term disabilities or bringing up young children at home. Avoid the rush and apply now – most applications are open.

3.    Get a free home energy check - Every supplier will be able to offer help and advice on what you can do today to save next winter – and most will do it for free. Make sure you talk to your energy supplier about your own home and circumstances.

4.    Fix the leaks - summer is the perfect time to install insulation in your home to ensure you are warm through the winter. Companies offer to do this work for free or at heavily subsidised rates for some customers and the Home Heat Helpline can help you find out if you might qualify.

5.    Spring clean your boiler – while its warm and the boiler takes a welcome break make sure your boiler is as efficient as it can be. If your boiler is 15 years old or more it might be time for a replacement. Boilers account for around 55% of what you spend in a year on energy bills, so it’s worth doing if you need to.

The helpline can be reached on 0800 33 66 99. People can call to speak to one of the friendly advisors or visit www.homeheathelpline.org.uk, where you can now chat online to advisers if you’d rather not call.

Home Heat Helpline: 0800 33 66 99 or www.homeheathelpline.org.uk

Follow the Home Heat Helpline on Twitter for added advice and updates @HHHelpline