Honiton: Struggling with energy bills? Why not come along to a free advice session

A local not-for-profit is offering free energy advice sessions to Honiton residents. 

Exeter Community Energy (ECOE) is increasing the number of drop-in clinics it is offering this winter to help people who are most affected by the increase in fuel prices and the cost of living crisis. 

ECOE is an award-winning social enterprise. It has received additional funding from Honiton Town Council to enable them to put on the extra sessions. 

It is hoped that the free sessions will help households reduce their fuel bills. The sessions are drop-in and can provide people with a bespoke energy advice package. 

Support will be offered on a wide range of topics, including checking tariffs, grants for insulation, registering for Priority Services, tips to reduce usage and benefits and debt. 

You will also be able to book a free home visit for help with easy measures which could reduce bills, such as fixing droughts. The most vulnerable users could also have LED lights installed, which are cheaper to run. 

Matthew Axe, Team Leader at ECOE said: "The impact of fuel poverty and cold homes on the physical and mental health of adults and children is now well established.

"It is important to recognise that some low-income households, particularly those with disabilities or young children, will struggle to keep their homes warm this winter."

Tara Bowers is the ECOE Director and project manager. She said: "We are grateful for additional funding from Honiton Town Council to help us provide more energy advice clinics in the town.

"We are there to help residents who are struggling with their fuel bills and ensure they can stay warm and healthy in their homes for this and future years."

The clinics will take place on the following dates: 

• Tuesday 10 January 15.00pm - 17.00pm at The Beehive
• Monday 23 January 10.00am - 12.00pm at Dunning Court
• Friday 3 February 10.00am - 12.00pm at The Family Church
• Thursday 16 Feb 13.00pm - 15.00pm at CUB Community Use Building
• Friday 3 March 10.00am - 12.00pm at Honiton Library

If you are unable to attend a session, support is still available. You can call the Freephone number on 0800 772 3617 or contact the team via email: [email protected] or via self-referral on their website.