As energy prices are set to increase even more older people will struggle to keep warm in their homes, this winter. The associated health risks of a low body temperature in an older person include heart attack, strokes, kidney failure and liver damage.

The items in our Warm in Winter gift bags are specifically chosen to help keep older people warm when they are unable to heat their homes sufficiently. For some, they could quite literally be a lifesaver.

The launch of our 2021/22 Winter Fuel Payment campaign creates an opportunity for people to help make a difference to the lives of vulnerable, older people during the coldest months.  We are asking anyone who receives a Winter Fuel Payment and doesn’t consider they need it, to please donate some, or all of it to us.  The donation will go directly towards items such as fleece blankets, thermal socks, hats and gloves, and hot drinks which get distributed in our Warm in Winter gift bags to older people who are cold in their homes.

Our CEO Lynne Misner comments, ‘ This winter, with the huge rises in fuel costs, more older people than ever will have to make the almost unimaginable choice between heating and eating. Many will sit alone in the cold and dark or go to bed early to try and keep warm. We cannot begin to imagine the toll this will take on their physical and mental health. If you don’t need your Winter Fuel Payment, please donate it to us and we will use it to provide essential, keep warm items to thousands of older people during the coldest, darkest months of the year. Your small act of kindness will make a big difference.’

Feedback from a recipient of a Warm in Winter gift bag commented, ‘It provides for basic needs like drinks, at a moment when one cannot afford them, as well as warm things for the winter.’

We are always extremely grateful to everyone who donates their Winter Fuel Payment to us, or part of it and of course to those who don’t yet receive these payments but who choose to make an equivalent donation instead.  For those who would like to donate some of their Winter Fuel Payment, every donation of £100 will provide four Warm in Winter gift bags,  and £50 will provide 10 fleece blankets.

Please visit our donation page to find out more and donate.