Working in partnership to tackle fuel poverty

The Welsh Government’s Nest scheme aims to tackle fuel poverty by improving the energy efficiency of existing homes across Wales.

Nest provides free advice to help households reduce their energy bills, increase their income and improve the energy efficiency of their homes. The scheme also provides free home improvements for people in receipt of a means tested benefit that own or privately rent their home. These improvements can include a new central heating boiler, loft insulation, or cavity wall and solid wall insulation.

Between 2011 and 2015, over 68,000 householders have contacted Nest and 17,700 have received free home improvements and saved an average of £477 on their energy bills.

Nest complements a range of advice and support services and works with partner organisations, including local authorities and a range of charities and third sector bodies, to reach households in most need. The team of Nest Partnership Development Managers are able to provide presentations and training, and work with partners on joint events and targeted campaigns.

Partner organisations then refer customers to Nest by either signposting the Nest freephone number (0808 808 2244) and website (www.nestwales.org.uk), or by using the dedicated Partner Portal website which provides the partner with feedback on their referrals.

If you think Nest could complement your work and you would be able to help reach people in need of support, please contact your local Partnership Development Manager - Mid and South Wales (rhian.liddiard@est.org.uk), South East Wales (Daniel.StJohn@est.org.uk), North Wales (rick.ward@est.org.uk), or West Wales (peter.hughes@est.org.uk).