General Practitioners (GPs) in Mid Powys have expressed growing concerns over the increasing issue of fuel poverty among their patients.

As energy prices and household bills continue to rise, many households are finding it increasingly difficult to afford adequate heating and energy supplies, impacting their health and wellbeing.

Fuel poverty is a pressing issue that affects many vulnerable individuals and families across communities.

GPs say they have observed firsthand the detrimental effects of living in cold homes, including exacerbation of existing health conditions and increased susceptibility to illnesses such as respiratory infections.

Gareth Ratcliffe, PAVO Health Promotions Facilitator, said: "The rising cost of living and energy costs are placing significant financial strain on patients, especially the elderly, families with young children, and those with chronic illnesses.

“It's imperative that we take action to ensure everyone has access to affordable warmth as winter is not far away. By acting now this will allow residents to get support in place ready for the colder period."

Residents are encouraged to explore the various support options available below:

Advicelink Cymru: If you are unsure about what support is available to you, Advicelink Cymru can help you check what you are entitled to and to claim what's yours. https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/wales/about-us/our-work/advice-partnerships/advicelink-cymru/

Age Cymru Powys: Free home energy checks are being offered for those over 65. Telephone:01686 623707 https://www.ageuk.org.uk/cymru/powys/

Citizens Advice Energy Calculator: Find out which appliances in your household use the most and least energy. https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/wales/consumer/energy/energy-supply/get-help-paying-your-bills/check-how-much-your-electrical-appliances-cost-to-use/

Energy Advocate in Powys - Severn Wye: to request free, confidential support from an energy advisor in your area. https://severnwye.org.uk/project/advocate-powys/

Energy Saving Trust: Quick tips and advice on how to save energy, lower your bills and reduce your carbon footprint. https://energysavingtrust.org.uk/policy/

Help for Households: Help for Households is a UK government website for information on reducing energy bills, energy efficiency and grants. Telephone: 0800 098 7950. https://helpforhouseholds.campaign.gov.uk/

MoneySavingExpert: A useful website containing advice and tips on saving energy and cutting costs. https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/energy/

Nest: The Nest scheme offers a range of free, impartial advice and, if you are eligible, a package of free home energy efficiency improvements such as a new boiler, central heating, insulation, or solar panels. This can lower your energy bills and benefit your health and wellbeing. https://nest.gov.wales/

Rent Smart Wales: Do you live in or own a rental property regulated by Rent Smart Wales? The Warm Home Fund could provide heating upgrades for hard to heat, inefficient homes. For enquiries contact 03000 133344. https://rentsmart.gov.wales/en/energyefficiency/

Warm Wales Powys Energy Saving Scheme: An innovative Energy Saving Scheme in Powys designed to address fuel poverty and reduce carbon emissions by adopting a 'whole house' approach and solution. https://en.powys.gov.uk/article/14595/Warm-Wales-Powys-Energy-Saving-Scheme-ECO4-Flex

Gareth Ratcliffe added: "We urge residents who are struggling with energy bills or living in cold homes to reach out for support. These services are here to help improve your living conditions and overall health."