Residents struggling to heat their homes are being offered a helping hand to keep the winter chill at bay.
Waltham Forest Council and charity the HEET project have been awarded £500,000 to tackle fuel poverty in the borough.
The award provided by Affordable Warmth Solutions' Warm Homes Fund will support up to 200 households who are experiencing fuel poverty providing first time gas central heating for residents who currently use electric heating or gas fires as well as fund a free gas connection to their property.
A 2018 report from the government found that nearly one in ten UK households experience fuel poverty.
Fuel poverty is classified as when a household needs to spend 10 per cent of its income on fuel to keep occupants warm and healthy.
The project will also allow residents to benefit from energy efficiency measures including loft and cavity wall insulation, free home energy checks, and advice on how to stay warm and save money on heating over the winter.
Cabinet Member for Housing Cllr Louise Mitchell said: "When people have a safe, decent roof over their head and warm house in which to live, they have the confidence and support they need to succeed and make the most of their life chances.
"We are determined to work to help those who may be struggling in the face of ever-rising fuel bills. It is a tragedy that in modern-day Britain, people are having to choose between heating and eating."
The funding is available to eligible owner occupiers and social and private tenants with agreement from their landlord who are in receipt of certain benefits or those who meet the low income threshold.
Tom Ruxton from the HEET Project said: "A free gas connection and installation of an efficient gas central heating system can halve a household’s heating bill. Adequate warmth is essential to good health and can also help to reduce problems of condensation and mould growth in your home."
For more information or to register interest, contact the HEET Project on 020 8520 1900.