Suffolk Community Foundation Launches 'Surviving Winter Appeal 2024/25 to Combat Rise in Fuel Poverty

Help Suffolk’s most vulnerable to Survive Winter

Suffolk Community Foundation has launched its annual Surviving Winter appeal to raise vital funds to help vulnerable older people to stay warm and well when the cold weather hits.

The Foundation is asking anyone who feels able to make a donation to get in touch and support the growing number of pensioners who are struggling to heat their homes.

The campaign has taken on even more importance than ever this year as an estimated 90% of older people living in the county are due to lose the winter fuel payment following changes to government policy. This also means Suffolk Community Foundation can no longer raise funds by asking people who do not need the payment to consider donating it to help others instead.

Anna Hughes, Interim Chief Executive at Suffolk Community Foundation, said: “Surviving Winter is now in its 14th year and has raised more than £1.5m so far. This has provided a lifeline for many thousands of people by helping them to stay safe and warm as the weather turns colder.

“However, the changes which are being made nationally mean that the need for support is now even greater than ever. Many older people are extremely anxious about the high cost of energy and are having to make difficult choices between heating and eating every single day.

“But Surviving Winter can help – which is why we are appealing to anyone who feels able to donate to consider doing so. By working together, we can make a real difference to some of the most vulnerable members of our community.”

A gift of £175 could help someone pay for gas or electricity, while £350 could provide 500 litres of heating oil. To make a donation, you can click here, call 01473 602602 or visit any branch of Suffolk Building Society to make a payment over the counter.

Anyone aged 66 and above who lives in Suffolk and is not receiving pension credit will be eligible to apply for a grant. To do so, click here or contact one of the charity partners who will be managing applications and payments (see notes to editors for more information).

We ask you please to consider how you might be able to support this year’s Appeal financially as an individual or within your business. We also ask that you let everyone know that help is available in Suffolk from The Surviving Winter Appeal.

Together we will make a difference to the lives of people in Suffolk who need it most.