2023-02-01 11:56:27
Hft distributes ‘warm packs’ to help adults with learning disabilities deal with cold weather conditions
More than 100 learning disabled adults throughout the South West, East Midlands and West Midlands who are affected by fuel poverty have received a “warm pack” to help them keep warm in the colder months, thanks to funding obtained by national learning disability charity, Hft.
The £9,000 grant was awarded by the National Grid’s ‘Community Matters Fund Fuel Poverty Plus’ project and has been allocated to 105 people across 16 of Hft’s services, including in Bristol, Gloucestershire, Warwickshire, Worcestershire, Shropshire and Cornwall. Each of the adults received thermal long-sleeved tops, thermal leggings, thermal socks, a microwaveable heat pad and a blanket.
“Eligibility was based on supporting vulnerable people affected by fuel poverty and, to ensure we could deliver an impactful project to the people we support in the specified regions, we chose those homes that are less energy efficient than others,” explains Megan Evans, Hft’s Sustainability Lead.
“We also directed recipients to Community Integrated Care’s ’Taking Charge’ campaign which provides energy efficiency guidance tailored to adults with learning disabilities. Information includes tips on how to stay warm and alleviate the pressures of rising energy prices.
“This initiative forms part of our Energy Efficiency Plan, which looks at improving the energy performance of our services to suppress the rising costs of fuel for the people we support and reduce the associated carbon emissions,” explains Megan.
Notes to editors
For further information please email media.enquiries@hft.org.uk
About Hft
Proudly established in 1962 by a group of visionary parents, Hft is a charity supporting more than 2,500 learning disabled adults in England and Wales. Together, we are creating a future where learning disabled people and their families can live the best life possible.
Providing personalised support. Creating solutions for living independently. Coming together to campaign for positive change. Fundraising for new opportunities and a bigger impact.
In 2033, we’ll live in a world where learning disabled people have greater choice. About where they live. The support they need and want. And how to spend their time and money.
Learning disability versus difficulty
A learning disability is different from a learning difficulty but the terms are often confused and used inter-changeably. A learning difficulty does not affect general intellect, whereas a learning disability is a life-long condition characterised by a reduced intellectual ability and struggle with everyday activities.
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For more information about Hft please visit www.hft.org.uk
