Big freeze killed 25,000 older people
10/11/2011
Topic: Insurance & protection
Last year the big freeze killed 25,400 older people across the UK as many struggled to keep warm in the wintry conditions, it has been revealed.
This figure from the Office for National Statistics suggests that the UK has a higher winter death than many of its colder European counterparts, Saga pointed out.
That is why the group supports the launch of the Surviving Winter campaign, due to be unveiled in Parliament today (November 10th) in collaboration with the Community Foundation Network.
Director General of Saga Dr Ros Altmann said: "We are aware that the UK has a much less energy efficient housing stock than most of Europe, meaning vulnerable people need all the help they can get to keep warm this winter."
The initiative enables people who receive Winter Fuel Payments from government to donate them to others if they feel their need is greater.
Last year the scheme was introduced local in a number of regions, however, in a bid to help older communities, Saga welcomes its introduction across the wider nation.
Dr Altmann added: "With rising fuel costs and the government's decision to cut the Winter Fuel Payments this year, vulnerable older people are suffering a double whammy.
"Saga is fully behind this new 'fuel-anthropic' venture, helping channel donations into the right hands."
The group highlighted the fact it was not just over pensioners who were able to contribute to the cause, as anyone over 50 is invited to donate their winter funds.
Celebrities are also getting behind the campaign, with the likes of Terry Wogan, Ann Widdecombe and David Jason all supporting the appeal.
Michael Parkinson said: "If you are in a position to do so please help by donating all or part of your Winter Fuel Payment to this very worthwhile cause."
Anyone interested in making a donation or looking to learn more about the initiative can go to the Saga website of contact their local Community Foundation.
Posted by David Shuker
This figure from the Office for National Statistics suggests that the UK has a higher winter death than many of its colder European counterparts, Saga pointed out.
That is why the group supports the launch of the Surviving Winter campaign, due to be unveiled in Parliament today (November 10th) in collaboration with the Community Foundation Network.
Director General of Saga Dr Ros Altmann said: "We are aware that the UK has a much less energy efficient housing stock than most of Europe, meaning vulnerable people need all the help they can get to keep warm this winter."
The initiative enables people who receive Winter Fuel Payments from government to donate them to others if they feel their need is greater.
Last year the scheme was introduced local in a number of regions, however, in a bid to help older communities, Saga welcomes its introduction across the wider nation.
Dr Altmann added: "With rising fuel costs and the government's decision to cut the Winter Fuel Payments this year, vulnerable older people are suffering a double whammy.
"Saga is fully behind this new 'fuel-anthropic' venture, helping channel donations into the right hands."
The group highlighted the fact it was not just over pensioners who were able to contribute to the cause, as anyone over 50 is invited to donate their winter funds.
Celebrities are also getting behind the campaign, with the likes of Terry Wogan, Ann Widdecombe and David Jason all supporting the appeal.
Michael Parkinson said: "If you are in a position to do so please help by donating all or part of your Winter Fuel Payment to this very worthwhile cause."
Anyone interested in making a donation or looking to learn more about the initiative can go to the Saga website of contact their local Community Foundation.
Posted by David Shuker
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