Around Ealing Winter 2015-16 | Page 11

WINTER Keep COSIE There is no reason for going cold this winter. If you are concerned about keeping your home warm, there is somewhere you can turn to for advice and support. E aling Council’s COSIE helpline (cold weather support in Ealing) is free to call from landlines and mobiles. Advisors have detailed knowledge of grants, support and information to keep your home snug while keeping energy bills down at the same time. Home visits by ‘green doctors’ are also sometimes possible. Councillor Jasbir Anand, cabinet member for housing, employment and skills, said: “In total, almost £30,000 in savings has been made by people who contacted COSIE and were helped to switch energy supplier, at an average of £128.11 per household. “Grants for low income households are now also available for first-time central heating installations, boiler replacements and insulation measures in the borough. Contact the COSIE helpline to see if you qualify. “Although anyone can call COSIE, residents are more likely to be eligible for a home visit or heating and energy efficiency grants if they are either aged 65 or older, are on qualifying benefits, have children under the age of five, or have a disability or specific long-term chronic health condition.” The number is 0800 083 2265. STAYING HEALTHY Staying warm over the winter can help prevent serious illnesses such as pneumonia, heart attacks, stroke and even depression. The council’s public