SAFER and healthier homes could be within reach for Wiltshire residents thanks to support available through the Warm and Safe Wiltshire project.

The project is being delivered jointly by Wiltshire Council and Wiltshire Fire & Rescue Service to help and advise residents on improving energy efficiency in their homes.

The service can inform people about the possible benefits they may be entitled to as well as providing:

• Energy saving advice
• Advice on limiting the negative impact on health that a poorly heated home can cause
• Fuel debt advice
• Help with managing fuel bills and switching tariffs
• Home fire safety advice

Maggie Rae, corporate director for Wiltshire Council, said: “Making a home warm and safe, particularly for the vulnerable, can reduce the risk of falls and illnesses and help people avoid having to go to hospital.

“The Warm & Safe project provides expert advice and guidance so I would recommend people give them a call and see what support is available.”

In addition to the many health benefits of having a safer home, there are positive financial implications too such as cavity wall insulation saving a household up to £140 a year on fuel bills and loft insulation saving up to £150 a year.

Keith Humphries, Wiltshire Council cabinet member for public health, said: “Sometimes just taking some simple steps, such as loft insulation, can make a big difference to not only someone’s health but their bank balance too.

"If people feel they or someone they know could benefit from the project then I’d recommend they give the team a call and find out more.”

Station Manager Damien Bence, of Wiltshire Fire & Rescue Service’s community safety department, said: “There are real fire risks associated with many of the ways that people stay warm, such as open fires, portable heaters and electric blankets.

"Improving how you heat your home can also make it safer from fire, which is why we support this initiative.”

Home fire safety advice can be found at here where people can also request a free home fire safety visit.

If residents want more information about the project they can call 0300 003 4575 or email warmandsafe@wiltshire.gov.uk