As the clocks go back, the days get shorter and people are switching on their lights and heating, Cumbria Action for Sustainability (CAfS) is seeking to recruit 20 energy champions as part of the Cold to Cosy Homes Cumbria energy-saving service.
“We’re looking for people from across South Lakes, Eden and beyond who are keen to save money on energy bills and are prepared to tell others about the help that’s on offer,” says Tina Holt, energy efficiency project officer with Cumbria Action for Sustainability (CAfS), which runs the service. “These champions could be volunteers in their communities, frontline workers who support people as part of their job, or individuals who are keen to help their neighbours. They will be given training and support and the main thing we’re looking for is enthusiasm rather than expertise.”
The Cold to Cosy team is already visiting homes and ensuring that simple measures such as low-energy lighting, draught excluders and radiator reflectors are in place to reduce energy use and costs. The champions will have an important role in spreading the word and encouraging more referrals to CAfS.
The Cold to Cosy Homes service started in South Lakes and is now available across Eden, gradually extending to other areas of Cumbria.
“Cold to Cosy Homes Cumbria is aiming to do exactly what it says, improving people’s homes to save them money and save energy,” says Tina. “Becoming a champion is a great opportunity for people to help others and get involved in a very worthwhile scheme. The first step is to book onto our half-day training session in November at www.cafs.org.uk/events. If that date doesn’t suit, we have another one planned for early in 2020.”
Cold to Cosy Homes Cumbria is delivered by CAfS, with a network of trusted Cumbrian tradespeople carrying out the more substantial draught proofing installations. It is funded through the Energy Industry Voluntary Redress Scheme and partners are Local Energy Advice Partnership (or LEAP), South Lakeland District Council, Eden District Council’s Warm Homes Eden project and Carlisle City Council.
Householders can apply for a free Cold to Cosy Homes Cumbria visit and help here on our website, or by calling CAfS on 01768 210276.
