An innovative new scheme to tackle health problems associated with cold, damp homes has been launched in Newport and Monmouthshire.

A cold damp home can lead to the deterioration of an existing health condition or the development of new health problems. In Wales 23 per cent of people have a limiting long-term illness or a disability, and 260,000 people suffer from asthma.

Asthma UK report that “caring for people who experience an asthma attack costs 3.5 times more than those whose asthma is well-managed.” Not to mention the stress and anxiety that it poses to the sufferer and their family.

Part of managing any health conditions requires people to examine their living conditions and consider the resulting physical and mental effects upon their health. This is where the Healthy Homes scheme can help, enabling residents of Newport and Monmouthshire with a health condition to receive measures that will improve their living conditions.

There are a variety of measures available that will help towards keeping the home warm as well as affordable to heat; these include boiler repairs, boilers replacements (means tested benefit required), draught proofing and loft & cavity wall insulation.

The scheme is being managed by the South East Wales Energy Advice Centre, with a total of £140,000 available, funded through a combination of energy suppliers and charity and benevolent funding.

To help publicise the scheme, the Energy Advice Centre will be at Abergavenny Market on Tuesday, May 31 or alternatively find out more by calling 0800 622 6110.