State pensioners have been warned to “not worry” about their energy bills and urged to prioritise their health this weekend amid the threat of a UK snow storm and -8C conditions. Older people are being urged to look after themselves amid the changing mercury.
Speaking to GB News, Caroline Abraham said: “It’s a really serious issue. And particularly today with winter really biting across the country and snow on the ground in some places. We’re in for a real cold snap for about a week, and we’ve heard from absolutely tens of thousands of pensioners over the last few months, worrying about this moment, worrying about whether they would be able to afford to run their heating high enough to keep themselves adequately warm.
“I worry, of course, is that lots of older people will try and brave it out or try and get through this cold snap without running their heating. They’ll wear extra jumpers, they’ll stay longer in bed, all those kinds of things. But with the air this cold that really isn’t good for them at all. Getting very cold is really bad for your health when you get old.
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“So our plea really to older people is to think about yourself and your health first, and worry about the bills afterwards because energy companies are there with a legal duty to help you. If you’re struggling, you may be able to get some help from your local council as well.”
National Highways Severe Weather Resilience Manager, Darren Clark, said: “If you are travelling this weekend, keep your distance and reduce your speed. Gritters will be out treating our roads around the clock when ice or snow is forecast, but it is still important to drive to the conditions.
“Even in conditions that seem normal and where the snow is not settling you could always experience slippery conditions. Drivers should plan their journeys, check their vehicles, monitor weather reports and pack a snow kit of blankets, food, water and a shovel.”