THE Wiltshire & Swindon Community Foundation is appealing for donations to provide life-changing help to thousands of vulnerable people throughout the coldest months.

Launched in 2011, Surviving Winter was originally created to provide one-off fuel payments for older people and those at risk from the cold.

The programme has grown significantly and now supports people with a wide range of complex needs as the foundation has forged strong partnerships with Age UK Wiltshire, Warm and Safe Wiltshire, Wiltshire Citizens Advice and Swindon Citizens Advice.

Last year, the programme supported 3,264 individuals in 1,564 households, delivering fuel grants in forms such as pre-payment meter top-ups, heating oil and direct payments to suppliers.

Surviving Winter also connects people to expert advice on making homes energy efficient, applying for benefits and accessing practical support and local services.

The programme has been life-changing, and in some cases, lifesaving.

One of those supported last year was ‘Mrs L’, whose rejected Pension Credit claim forced her to significantly under-heat her home despite health conditions.

A Surviving Winter grant provided immediate relief, while Age UK Wiltshire helped to successfully challenge her Pension Credit decision and apply for Attendance Allowance, giving her long-term financial security.

Cold homes can have devastating effects on health, worsening respiratory and circulatory conditions and putting lives at risk.

Across the county, more than 29,000 households are living in fuel poverty and unable to heat their homes properly over winter.

Older people are particularly at risk with the overall rate of pensioner poverty across Wiltshire at 7.3%, around 11,650 people.

The programme has been life-changing.

Foundation joint chief executive Fiona Oliver said: “No one in Wiltshire or Swindon should have to choose between heating their home or putting food on the table. Our Surviving Winter campaign shows the power of local giving – with the support of our community, we can make sure older and vulnerable people stay warm, well and cared for this winter.

“Each year, it demonstrates how community generosity and local expertise can create lasting change.”

To find out more visit www.wscf.org.uk/about/surviving-winter/