Groundwork Northamptonshire to distribute free warm packs to residents this winter

The Cadent Foundation and Groundwork have once again come together to distribute winter warmer packs to households living in vulnerable situations, ensuring households in Northamptonshire are able to stay warm and well in their homes this winter. 

4,896 packs have been donated by the Cadent Foundation which will be handed out by Groundwork’s Green Doctors – energy efficiency advisors – as part of the ongoing Stay Warm Stay Well programme. 

The packs are designed as an emergency intervention to those most in need and are available across Cadent’s network. Created to keep households warm during the colder months, the packs include home essentials such as hot water bottles, gloves, scarves, hats and blankets. Groundwork will be delivering the packs from their local community hubs as well as via partnerships with food banks and other support services. 

The packs will be distributed as part of the in-home visit service by Groundwork’s Green Doctors. Here, Green Doctors visit homes and offer practical guidance on energy saving, including behaviour change tips, as well as referrals to other local support services, including debt advice and food banks. 

Those worried about their energy bills are encouraged to fill out a referral form on the Groundwork website. 

Ranjit Blythe, Managing Director of the Cadent Foundation, said: “We’re entering a winter period where many thousands of households will be incredibly worried about keeping their home warm and safe. Too many households are choosing to avoid their heating, putting themselves in danger of the impacts of cold weather. Our packs are part of a wider support programme with Groundwork which aims to find long-term solutions to fuel poverty. We hope the packs offer much needed respite to those who need it this winter.” 

Graham Duxbury, Groundwork’s UK Chief Executive, said: “As energy costs remain a challenge for many families, ensuring that vulnerable households can access help and support is essential. Being worried about rising debts, turning the heating on and making sure there is food on the table can lead to significant mental health problems, and living in a house that is cold and damp can put some people in serious danger. Winter Warmer packs can bring immediate relief from the worst of the cold weather, while demonstrating how simple measures can maximise warmth and minimise bills." 

This is the seventh year the Cadent Foundation has donated the packs, as they hope to mark 30,000 people supported since the initiative began in 2019. Over £1 million worth of essential items have been distributed to date. 

The Cadent Foundation is funded by local gas network Cadent and has been established to help households find sustainable solutions to fuel poverty and ensure people are safe and warm in their homes. More information can be found at www.cadentfoundation.com.   

For more information on Groundwork’s Green Doctor programme, together with tips and advice on keeping your home warm this winter, visit:  www.groundwork.org.uk/getenergyhelp/