Cumbria Community Foundation Launches 2024 Winter Warmth Appeal to Help Vulnerable Older Cumbrians
As winter approaches, the Cumbrian community is once again coming together to support those who may struggle to heat their homes. The 2024 Winter Warmth Appeal, organized by the Cumbria Community Foundation, aims to provide much-needed assistance to older members of the community who may be facing a winter of deadly cold.
On Thursday, October 24, 2024, three iconic Cumbrian landmarks were draped in giant scarves to launch the appeal. The 33-metre scarf was wrapped around The Hoad in Ulverston, Whitehaven Lighthouse, and the rotunda at Tullie in Carlisle, serving as a reminder that many older Cumbrians are at risk during the winter months.
Jenny Benson, Director of Programmes & Partnerships at Cumbria Community Foundation, urged the community to support the appeal, stating, “We want to remind everyone not to forget the older vulnerable members of our community who are facing a winter of suffering because they cannot afford to heat their homes adequately.”
According to statistics, between 300 and 500 older people in Cumbria die every year due to issues related to not being able to afford heating their homes. This number could be even higher this year, as pensioners will not receive an extra winter fuel cost-of-living top-up and energy prices have recently risen by 10%. In addition, the Government announced that only those in receipt of Pension Credit or a means-tested benefit will receive the Winter Fuel Payment.
Benson added, “Our appeal is more vital than ever before, and we want to ensure that no one is forced to struggle during the colder months. Please support the Winter Warmth Appeal by making a donation, however large or small, if you can.”
The Winter Warmth Appeal collects donations from the public and then distributes them to those most in need, allowing them to stay warm without worrying about the cost. Last year, over £315,000 was awarded in grants, benefiting a total of 1,941 vulnerable older people across the county. One of the recipients, Shirley McGuire from Carlisle, expressed her gratitude for the support, stating, “It’s just wonderful that Age UK, through the Winter Warmth Appeal, has been able to help me – it is very much needed.”
The appeal has been running since 2010 and has raised over £2.5 million. This year, a match funding challenge will run from Monday 11 November to Friday 13 December, during which donations will be doubled thanks to the generosity of match funding champions, including Electricity North West, WCF Ltd, and Cumberland and Westmorland and Furness Councils.
Electricity North West’s Customer Inclusion and Partnerships Manager, Karen Hunter, said, “We’re delighted to support Cumbria Community Foundation’s Winter Warmth Appeal. For four weeks from 11 November, as a match funding champion, we’ll double the donations that are made, £1 for £1 up to a total of £20,000.”
If you or someone you know is aged 60 or over and may need support from the fund, please visit the Cumbria Community Foundation’s website. Donations can be made online, by phone, or by cheque. Those who wish to donate by phone can call 01900 825760 between 9am-5pm. Let’s come together as a community to support our vulnerable older citizens during the cold winter months.
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.