A scheme that has already helped over a thousand households in Cornwall that have never had central heating stay warm and well, is now open for new applications.

Cornwall Council, supported by Inclusion Cornwall, Community Energy Plus, SSE and other partners, has secured a new 'Warm Homes Fund' programme to help another 400 households - whether privately rented or privately owned.

Residents from households that have never had central heating, who are in poor health, or at risk of poor health, are being urged to apply to make sure their home is warm in the coming winter months.

Cornwall Council's portfolio holder for children, wellbeing and public health, Sally Hawken said:

"We're very pleased to be able to offer people the opportunity to apply for one of these grants so that they can have a warm home before the weather turns cooler again.

"You can apply if people in your household are in poor health or at risk of ill health, have underlying health issues, is a carer, or you're worried about your home being cold or damp and it will improve your health and wellbeing."

Cornwall Council's interim director of Public Health, Rachel Wigglesworth said:

"It might seem like a strange time of year to think about being cold but it's important for residents to think ahead and plan now so that their home is adequately heated throughout the colder months.

"It is recommended to keep your home heated to at least 18 degrees celsius in order to help stay healthy."

Since 2018 this award-winning scheme has helped over a thousand Cornwall homes to be warm and cosy - now a further 400 households will soon be able to benefit too.

You can contact 0800 954 1956 or email to [email protected] to see if you qualify for this scheme or would like independent energy advice.

More information is available on Cornwall Council's website.