Additional funding from Stoke-on-Trent City Council will help vulnerable hospital leavers stay warm this winter

We've been awarded additional funding to keep Stoke-on-Trent residents warm at home after leaving hospital. 

According to the Building Research Establishment, cold homes cost NHS England £857m each year. This particularly affects those with respiratory conditions. 

Utility costs also soared last year, with electricity prices rising by 65% and gas by 128%. This has made it increasingly difficult for people to keep their homes warm during colder temperatures. 

NHS guidance reports that those aged over 65 with a long-term physical or mental health condition, disability, or on a low income are more vulnerable to the effects of cold weather. 

That's why we've been awarded additional funding from Stoke-on-Trent City Council to support those vulnerable people at risk of being admitted to hospital. 

Our local support team at Royal Stoke Hospital helps provide solutions to safely discharge patients. The new funding will expand on that support to help vulnerable groups heat their homes and prevent readmissions. 

The support will supply patients with winter packs including a blanket, thermal mug, hot water bottle, thermal socks, thermometer, woolly hat, and gloves. 

We will also provide energy top-ups and toiletry packs to reduce the risk of illnesses associated with poor hygiene. Packs will include shower gel, deodorant, a toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, hand soap, and a comb. 

Head of Wellbeing and Support, Julie Russell said she's pleased to have secured the extra funding to help vulnerable people in Stoke-on-Trent through the energy crisis. 

“The first allocation meant we provided support to 34 people,” said Julie.

“We’re so grateful to be given additional resources to carry on with that support. 

“Living in cold temperatures can be detrimental to your health. Your immune system doesn’t work as well and makes you more vulnerable to contracting illnesses. 

“It will be a lifeline to people struggling to pay to heat their homes, will prevent people with existing conditions from becoming seriously ill and will keep people out of hospital.”