Relaunch for better homes scheme

The Health Through Warmth scheme has helped more than 2,000 vulnerable people in the city since it was launched in 2004.

It is now being re-launched under the management of Care & Repair Leeds, which recently won a national award for the quality of its home improvement work.

Health Through Warmth launched in Leeds in 2004, in partnership with Leeds City Council. Since then more than 2,300 residents have been referred to the scheme, which has provided more than 2m- worth of heating and insulation measures.

Leeds is one of 15 areas of England and Wales to operate the scheme and the only one in Yorkshire. The national programme was set up in 2000 by energy firm npower, in partnership with charity National Energy Action and the NHS.

Care & Repair Leeds is now employing a Health Through Warmth co-ordinator.

Care & Repair Leeds director Bill Rollinson said: "Health Through Warmth is already an established scheme for vulnerable Leeds residents. However, there are still many residents who are experiencing cold and damp-related illnesses and have inadequate heating or insulation measures and are unsure where to turn to for help.

"We are looking forward to continuing to help the people of Leeds live warmer, more comfortable lives, and to making a difference in the local community."

Elaine Midwinter, Health Through Warmth scheme manager, said: "We believe there are many residents in Leeds who may be eligible for the scheme and by reaching out to vulnerable individuals who may be in need of help earlier in the year, we can ensure that measures are installed before the really cold winter weather returns."

For information contact the co-ordinator on 0113 391 8336 or visit www.healththroughwarmth.com