Mid Ulster council launch major new fuel-saving scheme for residents

New Mid Ulster collection cards and £5 fuel stamps are now available from more than 80 retailers across the area, while over 50 oil and coal suppliers are also participating in the scheme which encourages local people to budget for the cost of their fuel, instead of trying to find money to pay fuel costs at one point in time.

Speaking at an event to introduce the scheme across the Mid Ulster region, Chair of the Council, Councillor Linda Dillon, said: “Fuel poverty is a real issue and shows no discrimination, affecting families, couples, young people, people who live alone and older people. Meeting the costs of oil or coal in one go can be very challenging and the harsh reality can often leave people with a choice of paying to heat their homes or putting food on the table.

“Buying fuel stamps regularly means, bit by bit, people are able to build up an amount of money which can then be used to pay in part or in full for their fuel, relieving financial pressures and helping to keep more homes, and more people warm.

“I’m very pleased that the schemes operated by the three former councils have been brought together and will continue to help address a fundamental need in our community”.

The fuel stamp collection cards form part of a larger drive by the Council to address energy needs in local homes, and includes the Affordable Warmth programme, which offers eligible residents the opportunity to introduce energy efficiency measures into houses at no cost and eligible landlords reduced cost installation.

For more information about the Mid Ulster Fuel Stamp Collection scheme, contact the Council’s Environmental Health service on 03000 132 132, E: [email protected] or visit www.midulstercouncil.org/fuelstamps.