An average 60 people a year die from winter conditions in Islington

A council leader has said “much more” work is needed to curb fuel poverty in Islington, where an average 60 people a year die due to winter conditions.

It is more than the number of deaths for suicides and accidents put together, and an estimated 17,500 households in the borough live in fuel poverty.

Next month is the fifth anniversary of the council’s seasonal health interventions network (SHINE), which has helped nearly 10,000 residents survive cold weather and save £3m in gas and electricity bills.

As well as heating and insulation improvements, people can apply for energy bill discounts and help dealing with debt to energy and water companies.

But Cllr Claudia Webbe, executive member for environment and transport, said: “Fuel poverty remains a serious problem in Islington, with thousands paying high bills and struggling to keep warm.

“We’re committed to helping residents cut energy bills and SHINE has helped save £3m for local people since it launched five years ago.

“There’s still much more to do and we will continue to help residents cut bills and stay warm.”

One example of SHINE’s work was with a 50-year-old mother of five in poor health, pursued by bailiffs for debt and living in a damp, mouldy and overcrowded home where family members were suffering lung disease. SHINE helped her move to a better flat and successfully applied for £2,800 of debt to be written off.

For more information, visit islington.gov.uk/seasonalhealth