Cymdogion Cynnes, Ceredigion’s Warm Neighbour scheme, has been launched, in an attempt to help local residents stay warm this winter.

The Cymdogion Cynnes pack brings together details of assistance available to residents, both from a national and local perspective, to help people stay safe, warm and well this winter.

Cllr Gethin James, Ceredigion County Council said: “There is so much information and help available to address the concerns of rising fuel bills and maintaining a warm home it can sometimes be overwhelming. It is hoped that by having information in one place with local as well as national schemes available, it will help everyone ensure that those in our communities access the support available to them.

“If everyone, whether through their work or voluntarily assist just two people in our communities to raise awareness of the help available to them, it is clear that Cymdogion Cynnes has the potential to make a real difference to people’s lives, ensuring no one has to live in cold conditions for this and future winters.”

Gwyneth Jones, Director Age Cymru Ceredigion added: “Age Cymru Ceredigion welcomes the partnership approach in disseminating information out into the communities. Recent statistics reported in the national press that there was a 50% increase of winter deaths last year and the fact that older people in our communities are risking their health because they are afraid to turn up their heat or are going without food is clear evidence that we are failing them.

“We cannot ignore this problem in our communities. We urge families to seek help and advice for their older relatives, neighbours and friends. The bilingual pack contains important, easy to read information with contact details of local organisations.”

Download the pack at www.ceredigion.gov.uk/healthchallenge.