FREE Energy Advice Sessions aim to help Devon residents stay warm and informed this winter.
As the first cold spell of winter arrives and Fuel Poverty Awareness Day approaches (Wednesday 26 November), Devon Communities Together, the independent charity supporting Devon’s rural and coastal communities, is encouraging residents across Devon to make use of the free support available, covering everything from reducing energy use to understanding suppliers, tariffs, switching and energy price caps.
Energy costs and staying warm remain significant pressures for people within the wider cost-of-living crisis, yet many people still don’t realise that help is available. Devon Communities Together is calling on communities and anyone who may be struggling to seek free, confidential support.
FREE, PRACTICAL ENERGY SUPPORT ACROSS THE COUNTY
Through its countywide Energy Outreach Programme, Devon Communities Together offers free advice for individuals, families and community groups. Support is available through:
- 1-to-1 support and advice
- Drop-in sessions across Devon in libraries and community buildings
- Community talks and group sessions
- Telephone advice for those needing more personalised support
This year, the team is placing additional emphasis on helping people understand their energy suppliers, tariffs, bills, switching options, standing charges, price caps and what they actually mean - knowledge that can make a significant difference to household budgets.
Advice also covers reducing energy use, accessing financial support, collective oil purchase schemes, managing heating efficiently and much more.
SPOTTING THE SIGNS: COULD SOMEONE YOU KNOW BE STRUGGLING?
Energy Champions Martin Rich and Anderson Jones highlight several indicators that someone may be facing fuel poverty. You may notice:
- Wearing multiple layers or coats indoors
- Relying on bed as the warmest place in the home
- Reduced food shopping, relying on bargain reductions or food support services
- Respiratory issues or visibly poor health
- Condensation, damp or mould in the home
- Single-glazed windows, draughty doors or a cold, poorly insulated property
According to National Energy Action, 4.5 million UK households were affected by fuel poverty and total UK energy debt has risen above £4.4 billion (an increase from 2024).
ENERGY COSTS ARE TOUGH – GETTING HELP SHOULDN’T BE
Energy Champion Martin Rich said, “Fuel poverty is often associated with older people, but many young families, renters and those on low wages are among the hardest hit. For some, the choice between heating and eating isn’t really a choice at all; both are done insufficiently and people end up living in just one room with limited heat and limited food.
“Rural areas can face additional challenges; higher transport costs, older housing stock and reduced access to cheaper supermarkets. This is why community support is vital. Warm hubs, foodbanks, family centres, local councils and community organisations all play a role and we are grateful for the support of these places to be able to offer our FREE energy Advice Drop in Sessions. If you know someone who is struggling, guide them towards help or raise your concerns with an organisation that can step in.”
SUPPORT IS AVAILABLE NOW
Since September, Devon Communities Together has been travelling across the county to deliver free advice sessions. Individuals, families and community groups are all welcome to access free support until March 2026.
FREE Energy advice DROP IN sessions upcoming dates
November:
- Monday 24th November, 11am - 1pm: Seachange, Budleigh Salterton, EX9 6HF
- Thursday 27th November, 12pm - 1.30pm: The Arts Centre, The Quay, Bideford, EX39 2EY
- Saturday 29th November, 9am - 12pm: The Alice Cross Centre, Teignmouth, TQ14 9BT
December
- Thursday 4th December, 10am - 12pm: Budleigh Library, Budleigh Salterton, EX9 6RH
- Friday 5th December, 10am - 12pm: Exmouth Library, 40 Exmouth Road, EX8 1PS
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram or visit the website for up-to-date sessions.
To get advice, find a drop-in session near you, or book an Energy Champion for your event, contact: 01392 248919 or info@devoncommunities.org.uk.
