During the winter months, should our older and vulnerable neighbours have to choose between heating and eating?

Each year, we run our Surviving Winter appeal to tackle fuel poverty and to keep the older and vulnerable residents who are experiencing financial hardship across our county fed, warm and well as the cold weather hits.

Now entering its 15th year, this long-standing appeal is a source of pride for many of our donors, who have helped build it from the ground up and raised over £275,000 in that time. With energy prices set to rise once more this winter, the need for funding remains as urgent as ever.

Through our Surviving Winter Appeal, we’re preparing all year round so we’re ready to respond to urgent need as soon as temperatures drop. Every donation goes directly into the Surviving Winter Fund, from which we provide vital grants to local charities and community groups who are working tirelessly to protect the most vulnerable in our communities. These remarkable charities:

• Help vulnerable older residents and those on low incomes to heat their homes

• Provide warm clothing, blankets, and bedding

• Prepare and deliver nutritious hot meals

• Offer advice and emergency support for those in crisis

• Host warm and safe community spaces

We know an estimated 38,000 of vulnerable residents will struggle with fuel poverty. Rising energy prices mean that many of our most vulnerable residents are forced to make difficult choices, such as not turning on their heating or cutting back on food to save money.

Your contribution will have a meaningful impact on those facing financial hardship, helping them to stay warm, nourished, and healthy this winter. Every penny raised will go directly to those who need it most in Northamptonshire.

Thank you for considering this opportunity to make a positive, lasting difference. Together, we can support those who need us most.