FROME Town Council is forming a new group of ‘energy advice champions’ to help people reduce their energy bills and their carbon emissions. The town council is also looking for anybody interested in supporting others to become an energy champion.
A new scheme, launched in partnership with Frome Medical Practice and the Centre for Sustainable Energy, is looking to support the existing ‘healthy homes’ project with the addition of energy advice champions. Their role will be to advise residents about how they can make a real difference to their energy consumption by making small incremental changes, and in some cases, by going into people’s homes to help with draft proofing, insulation, and other changes.
Mayor cllr Sara Butler says “If you can commit a few hours a week/a month and would like to make a difference to people’s lives to reduce their energy bills and lower their carbon footprint, we would love to hear from you! You’ll be part of our friendly and supportive team to provide energy advice through initiatives such as our regular drop in energy sessions, phone appointments and home visits for those that need an additional support, such as help with setting heating controls and draught proofing, and making a real difference to people’s lives.”
The Centre for Sustainable Energy, who will support the group, already have volunteers in other areas and Louisa, one of their volunteers said of the scheme, “When I speak to people on the phone, it’s so amazing to be able to tell them their options and give them hope. I know I’ve done a good job when someone who was initially concerned, is thanking me at the end of the call and they are clearly relieved.”
The town council is looking for a commitment of anything from one to eight days a month and you will need to be available for an informal chat on the 3rd or 4th August, but hours of volunteering can be flexible and full training will be provided.
If you are interested or would like to attend a webinar on what’s involved or for more information, please contact the resilience officer Jo Morris – jmorris@frometowncouncil.gov.uk, 01373 480391. To apply for the volunteer role please write a short letter saying why you like you think you would be good for the role by the 25th July.
