PEOPLE in Ludlow can help others to keep warm this winter.

Many on limited incomes fear putting heating on

A Shropshire-based charity is asking people who can afford it to donate their Winter Fuel payments to help those in need. Shropshire Rural Communities Charity has launched its annual Warmer Winter Appeal, which uses the donations to give out grants for emergency fuel and energy saving improvements in people’s homes.

The campaign has raised almost £20,000 and helped 130 households in the county since it began in 2011. Winter Fuel Payments are distributed by the government to everyone over State Pension age, regardless of income and whether they are still working. This year the amount available is between £100 and £300, depending on age and circumstances.

“Many people in Shropshire receive this benefit and may not really need it, while for others, rising fuel costs is a source of great anxiety,” said Julia Baron, Chief Executive of Shropshire Rural Community Charity.