Orbit is running its successful ‘Winter Wellbeing’ campaign for the third consecutive year offering customers extra support to stay warm over the cold winter months.
This year, Orbit will be working with social enterprise Ethstat Ethical, to provide 1,000 support packs to customers containing items such as a blanket, hooded jumper and lantern as well as information about how to access Orbit’s Better Days programme. As part of the programme, Orbit partners with Citizens Advice Mid Mercia (CAMM) to offer free, impartial guidance on a range of issues including saving money on energy bills, switching providers and supporting with applications for the Warm Home Discount.
Via Orbit’s partnership with Family Fund Business Services (FFBS) customers experiencing fuel poverty can also apply for emergency fuel vouchers.
Customers can access Better Days support face to face via a programme of regional events at local community venues including Orbit’s Community Hubs, online or over the phone.
A recent survey from YouGov and National Energy Action (NEA) showed that half of UK households plan to ration their energy use this winter following the rise in the energy price cap and changes to the Winter Fuel Payment for some pensioners.
Helen Gleadell, Better Days Manager for Orbit said: “Rising energy bills combined with the already inflated cost of everyday essentials means that this will be a challenging time of year for many of our customers. But we want them to know that we’re here to help and that there is support available to save energy, manage their bills and stay warm and well this winter.”
Ethstat, use their profits to provide food for rough sleepers, help vulnerable people back into employment and support families affected by dementia. By working with Ethstat to supply the packs, Orbit is also helping to create employment opportunities to people from diverse backgrounds including those who have experienced long term unemployment, homelessness and addiction.