A THREE-day event offering advice on keeping warm and saving money this winter is being held at the Kingfisher Shopping Centre. 

The event is taking place at a pop up shop, located near Marks and Spencer and Muffin Break, on Thursday, January 12 from noon to 6pm and from 10am to 4pm on Friday, January 13 and Saturday, January 14.  

Like at previous 'winter warmer' events,which took place over the course of November and December last year, residents will be able to find out how much they could save by switching energy suppliers, with some able to claw back more than £200 a year.  

Some have received free smoke alarms and energy monitors. The many organisations on hand at the events have also helped to refer people to programmes like the Redditch Energy Efficiency Fund, grants for repairs and adaptations, and home energy and fire safety checks.

Cllr Mark Shurmer, Redditch Borough Council’s portfolio holder for housing, said: "Many families are now feeling the squeeze after Christmas and often being more energy efficient is the last thing on our minds. However, when family budgets are tight it’s important that people have the opportunity to get good information and understand they can save money in this way."

Kingfisher Shopping Centre deputy general manager Fiona Faizey said: "We are delighted to play host to the 'Winter Warmer' event. This is a perfect opportunity to pick up some useful tips and advice on how you can keep warm and save money."

Act on Energy, Age UK, Care and Repair Worcestershire, Herefordshire and Worcestershire Fire and Rescue Service, NEW Lifeline and Severn Trent Water continue to be involved in the events, which are specifically designed to help heat their homes for less. 

On Thursday between 1pm and 4pm and Friday 10am to 4pm, Redditch Borough Council’s financial inclusion team will also be available to talk to anyone needing financial or budgeting advice.

The council’s sports development team will also be on hand to provide information on activities for older people, including falls prevention and strength and balance.

The events are being organised by Redditch Borough Council and partners.

People who want help with switching energy suppliers to save mone should bring along an energy bill.

If you can’t make the events but want energy saving advice, please contact Act on Energy on 0800 988 2881 or advice@actonenergy.co.uk. For general information about the events, please contact kath.manning@bromsgroveandredditch.gov.uk.