Rosemary Butler AM has welcomed the latest figures from the Home Energy Efficiency Scheme, showing that 1,427 households have now benefited in Newport West since the programme started in 2000.

The scheme, which combats fuel poverty by helping with heating and insulation problems, is run by the EAGA Group and financed by the Welsh Assembly.

The Assembly has so far spent over £1,105,420 in the Newport West area. Households with children which are considered vulnerable, people over the age of 60 who receive benefits and those with Disability Living Allowances, are all potentially eligible.

Applicants need to own or rent their homes from a private landlord, as well as receiving income or disability benefits. A whole range of measures can be offered to help with heating and insulation.

Mrs Butler says:"The scheme is here to help vulnerable people to keep their homes warm and I'm urging those who think they may qualify to apply. Many people are losing out simply because they don't know about the scheme."

Mrs Butler will be holding a healthy homes advice surgery on March 30th to tell constituents about the grants available. It will be held at St  Stephen's Church Hall, Adeline Street, Pill between 10.00 am and 12.00.

In the meantime householders who think they could be helped should ring the HEES team on 0800316 3095.