The Surviving Winter appeal, which provides funding to help elderly

people struggling to heat their homes, is closing in on its £120,000 target after receiving donations from more than 450 supporters across Somerset.

Surviving Winter, run by Somerset Community Foundation (SCF), encourages people who can afford to, to make a donation from their Winter Fuel Payment.

The charity aims to support at least 500 vulnerable older people across Somerset with a Surviving Winter grant every winter.

Those in need are also given specialist support and connected to local services and community groups which can reduce loneliness and isolation.

The Covid-19 crisis means that for many older and vulnerable people, this winter will be even more difficult and worrying. Many will need to stay at home to keep themselves safe and will find themselves cut off from family and friends, facing higher costs to heat their homes.

The Rt Revd Ruth Worsley, Bishop of Taunton, has pledged her support for another year. She said: “Pensioners who can’t afford to heat their homes are going to bed early, cutting back on food and are often living in one room simply so they can stay warm.

“Making a donation from your Winter Fuel Payment to Somerset Community Foundation’s Surviving Winter appeal will help support some of the most vulnerable in our community. Please consider donating if you can.”

To give to Surviving Winter, visit www.somersetcf.org.uk/winter or call 01749 344949.

Further information is available on how to apply for a Surviving Winter grant will be published soon on Somerset Community Foundation’s website.