A new phase of Energy Systems Catapult’s Warm Home Prescription® has been launched in partnership with SGN and Fuel Bank Foundation. Running from December 2024 to March 2026, the initiative takes a proactive approach to protecting those most at risk from the dangers of living in a cold home.

Each winter, inadequate home heating contributes to a rise in emergency admissions for respiratory issues, heart attacks, and strokes. Research indicates that cold homes cost the NHS around £1.4 billion each year and play a role in tens of thousands of avoidable deaths. With over 36% of households spending more than 10% of their income on energy, soaring bills force many families to reduce essential heating, placing them in serious health jeopardy.

The partnership with SGN builds on the successful Warm Home Prescription trials that have already improved the lives of over 1,000 households and demonstrated a reduction in primary health care use, improved physical and mental health, and increased the willingness of recipients to make energy efficiency improvements to their homes.

Eligible households in Scotland and southern England will be provided with immediate support through tailored energy credits of up to £245 per household, to help cover winter heating costs. Energy credits are paid for by the Vulnerability and Carbon Monoxide Allowance (VCMA) fund. Outreach efforts include referrals from the NHS and from community support organisations, ensuring timely intervention by experienced energy advisors.

In addition to enabling immediate warmth, energy advisors from SCARF, SELCE, and other regional energy expert organisations will conduct phone assessments and, where necessary, in-home visits to provide practical advice on maintaining a warm and safe home environment.

Households will receive clear guidance on energy-efficient solutions, smart meter installations, and further improvements that deliver affordable, long-term warmth. Broader support services include referrals for benefits checks, debt management, and local community schemes, along with the provision of free carbon monoxide monitors and safety advice to lower the risk of poisoning.

Rebecca Sweeney, Business Leader – Homes at Energy Systems Catapult, said:

“This project is about saving lives. Every day, vulnerable people face the real threat of cold-related illness and death. By extending the Warm Home Prescription, we can offer immediate energy credits, expert advice, and comprehensive support to ensure that families stay warm and safe. Our mission is to prevent unnecessary deaths caused by cold homes and to help vulnerable households take control of their energy needs.”

Kerry Potter, Group Social Impact & Vulnerability Lead at SGN, commented:  

“Energy Systems Catapult and their delivery partners are seeing first-hand the impact the cost-of-living crisis is having on families struggling to afford to maintain a safe and warm home. That’s why we’re delighted to be partnering with the Catapult to help households at risk of health consequences from living in a cold home.

“While building a network of specialist local support partners, they will provide essential energy support and safeguarding services to households across both our networks, supporting them to use energy safely and efficiently, and make progress on the journey to long-term resilience to a warm, energy-efficient home.”