Preston City Council Backs 'Little Van of Warm'

Preston City Council Backs 'Little Van of Warm'

Preston City Council is supporting 'Little Van of Warm', made possible through funding from the Government's UK Shared Prosperity Funding (UKSPF) working in partnership with Cosy Homes in Lancashire (CHiL). With energy prices still high and having an impact on many residents in the region, this initiative aims to assist hundreds of households by providing free installations of low-cost energy-saving measures - all from a van!

Launched earlier this year, the initiative has benefited a number of residents through services such as installing LED lights, radiator shields, draught-proofing and carbon monoxide arms, all of which will make a difference to households and their energy efficiency.

It's not only small jobs that the Little Van of Warm can help with. Chris Conroy is the man inside the van and not only does he carry out energy installations but he can refer household onto to receive further support. A recent example includes the replacement of a boiler arranged by Chris, not only has this saved the household the cost of replacement but it will also reduce their energy prices.

Councillor Zafar Coupland, Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing at Preston City Council said:

"We're really proud to support this initiative as we know there is a real need for the Little Van of Warm across Preston. It will play a vital role in making homes more efficient and stay warm and we encourage people to ask for support and get a visit booked well before this coming Winter.

"We're excited to see the impact the initiative can have and look to build upon other services being delivered through the UK Shared Prosperity fund."

Chris Conroy, the man behind the wheel of the Little Van of Warm, said:

"Residents have been really receptive and appreciative of the Little Van of Warm. With the pressures of the cost of living, it's been extremely popular and is making a difference to people's lives.

We're delighted we can get on the road and support people, and such a small change in someone's house can provide warmth and comfort as well as saving money.

"In addition to these services, we are distributing free warmth packs containing essentials like blankets, thermal cups, hats, and gloves to further support residents in need. Over the coming months we will be visiting community venues around Preston to speak to residents and sign them up for a visit from the van."

Further Information 

As part of the initiative Preston City Council have partnered with Cosy Homes in Lancashire, whose aim is to make Lancashire homes warm, cosy and energy efficient.

Little Van of Warm is a free service eligible to those with a household income below £36,000 per year or recipients of means-tested benefits. Visit CHiL's - Little Van of Warm - handy person service to book a visit or alternatively call 03306 061 488.