In a recent column, I discussed my campaign to Save Shepshed Tip. Although the consultation has closed, I would like to share how delighted I am that so many people have said that they have responded to the consultation. It shows what a great community spirit that there is in Shepshed. As you may already know from receiving a letter yourself, I have personally written to many Shepshed residents asking that they respond to the consultation, and thank you very much to the people who have. I also recognise that this affects Hathern too, and as such I know that residents from Hathern have also been keen to respond to the consultation. I will continue to update my social media and website when we receive more news on this matter.
I would also like to make residents who are on low incomes aware that they could benefit from a £150 rebate on their energy bills, under the warm homes discount. However, they will need to act quickly so that they can get the support before this year’s scheme closes.
The help is available to over 3 million households across Great Britain that are most at risk of fuel poverty, with many receiving the discount automatically. However, some customers in England and Wales have been sent a letter asking them to confirm their details by calling the Warm Home Discount Helpline so they can check their eligibility and get the rebate. So if you have received a letter, make sure that you do not delay in getting in touch - you will need to call the hotline by the 29th of February. Their telephone number is 0800 030 9322. Alternatively, if you think that you should be eligible but have not received a letter, please get in touch with me: jane.hunt.mp@parliament.uk or 01509 262723.
The scheme forms part of measures to reduce costs for families and put more money in their pockets. It targets support to protect those most at risk of fuel poverty this winter, following a significant drop in energy prices since their peak last year and the government delivering on its pledge to halve inflation – which is now at a 2-year low of 4%. However, I recognise that this is not far enough, and I will support the Prime Minister’s pledge to continue to reduce it.
Finally, many of you will know of the Shepshed charity, Passion, that provides a safe space for a range of young people between the ages of 11 and 18. They have a base in the Bull Ring which also acts as a café to the general public to help fund raise to support their work. If you have not tried the café yet, I would highly recommend it!
Passion need to raise funds on an annual basis to support their work. Do you think you would be able to support them? This can be done by attending their events, or taking a trip to the café. It can also be done through a single donation, or a monthly standing order if you wish. Whatever the amount, however small, it will help the charity and in turn the young people of Shepshed. The donations page on their website is: www.passion-shepshed.co.uk/donate