A NEW £100,000 fund designed to help Bromsgrove residents on fixed or lower incomes improve the heating in their homes has been launched by the council.  

The scheme, called the Bromsgrove Energy Efficiency Fund, is available to people who have inefficient heating and whose household incomes fall below a certain level.

Should they meet the criteria, residents seeking extra winter warmth can acquire grants of up to £5,000 towards the cost of replacement boilers, radiators, insulation and more.

Councillor Kit Taylor, Bromsgrove District Council portfolio holder for housing services, said: "Better modern boilers or insulation can bring your heating bills right down, but the up-front costs can be challenging for people on fixed or lower incomes. 

"Through our Energy Efficiency Fund we’re trying to bridge that gap and help people achieve those regular savings. 

"It’s something we’re really thinking about as a hand up, not a hand out. 

"Our motto has become keep warm and save money."

The scheme – which was unanimously passed by councillors during a meeting on Wednesday, September 21 – will provide £100,000 funding spread over three years to 2019.

It follows a report from the Worcestershire Health and Wellbeing Board which found excess winter deaths in Bromsgrove hit 26.5 per cent – higher than the county average of 25.6%. 

Thresholds for the grant differ depending on the number of adults and children living in the household in relation to the household income after tax. 

The threshold for a single adult with no children stands at £10,720, increasing with one child (£13,920), two children (£17,120), three children (£20,320) and four or more (£23,520).

Two or more adults with no children must earn less than £16,000, increasing with one child (£19,200), two children (£22,400), three children (£25,600), and four or more (£28,800). 

A £250 household contribution to the cost of the works is required, while £500 can also be available to households earning less than the Worcestershire average of £37,000.

Apply to Act on Energy by calling 0800 988 2881, or visit bromsgrove.gov.uk for further information.