Gas Connection

redamy73

hello

I dont know if anyone can help. My Grandpa is 90 and lives in council property. He has relied on coal fires for 50 years and has now become too frail to make the fires up every morning.

We have contacted the council about central heating which they are willing to install, however, it has now come to light that he has no gas connection and will have to pay Transco over £700 to dig a trench to get connected.

As he doesnt have this sort of money, I asked the council if they would consider funding this as I dont think he will make it through another winter without any source of heat.

The council have refused advising the only option they will consider is electric storage heating througout the property (which is 3 bedroomed & quite large).

My Grandfather has been advised that this type of heating will not be affordable on his pension by many neighbours and friends so will not now consider giving the council access to assess storage heating, he thinks they will change their minds if he refuses this suggestion.

I am at a loss over what to do and wondered if anyone had any suggestions?????

thanks
Amy

E.ON_Company_Representative:_Helena

Hi Amy,

People do manage with storage heaters if used correctly, I would think this heating is better than no heating at all.

I'd also speak to his supplier to see if he can go on to a social tariff or ask if they offer benefits or help for him. Most suppliers have departments to help customers like this, ask to speak to them.

Make sure he is receiving the winter fuel allowance from the government, this will help go towards the bills.

filmnoir

An alternative of the street would be to approach an Independant Gas Transportor who's charges for connections are very low, however the downside is that this is ofset by the tranportation charges they charge to your gas supplier who pass them on through your kWh price for gas.

My personal opinion is that under current cirumcstances it would be good that you perhaps get the local paper to do a visit as a local piece and see if this will persuade them to fund the installation.

Also there are a number of goverment schemes for the elderly regarding energy and you would be well advised to contact them regarding funding.