The Government has published a national strategy whose aim is to reduce fuel poverty, particularly in vulnerable households. Stockton's Strategy seeks to reflect national targets whilst ensuring that issues of particular local importance are tackled, and to encourage all relevant agencies and groups to work together so that the hardship and ill health associated with fuel poverty can be eradicated.
Fuel poverty is a serious issue in Stockton, many are in severe or extreme fuel poverty, needing to spend at least a fifth of their disposable household income to keep warm. This is reflected in increased admissions to hospitals during cold spells and higher levels of heart disease and respiratory illness.
The local authority has done a great deal to tackle this issue over a number of years including a three year Warm Zone which was hugely successful. However recent fuel price increases are now at the forefront and Stockton Borough Council is working in partnership with Go Warm Eaga to help those in most need access assistance.
