Hayes Plumbing steps up for elderly after winter fuel cuts

A Hampshire-based heating firm is offering a lifeline to vulnerable elderly people hit by the recent cut to the Winter Fuel Allowance.

Hayes Plumbing and Heating Services, run by Ben and Nicola Proctor, is providing discounted services to elderly residents facing financial difficulties, particularly those impacted by the government’s decision to scrap the allowance for many. Only pensioners on certain benefits remain eligible, which has sparked concerns over fuel poverty as energy prices continue to bite.

Nicola Proctor expressed her concern, saying: “It saddens us to think that there are vulnerable people out there who can’t afford to put their heating on, or if they face an unexpected issue with their heating system, they are too worried about costs to get it repaired.”

In response, Hayes Plumbing will offer discounts on essential services such as annual boiler servicing, maintenance, and repairs for elderly residents in Hampshire and parts of West Sussex. This follows a similar initiative run during the COVID-19 lockdown when the firm provided half-price services to help the elderly avoid unscrupulous businesses.

The initiative comes as fears rise that many will be forced to go without heating this winter due to high energy bills and reduced government support. Nicola added: “With the increased energy prices, and the government cutting the Winter Fuel Allowance, we don’t want people to worry about repair costs if something goes wrong. Everyone deserves to live in a warm and comfortable home.”

For further information, elderly residents affected by the cuts can contact Hayes Plumbing and Heating Services directly at 01329 888108 or visit their website at hayesofhampshire.co.uk.