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• To provide all residents of Poole with access to quality advice services.
• To raise the profile of energy awareness amongst council staff and other organisations in Poole
• To raise awareness of fuel poverty issues and solutions amongst the public
• To take advantage of competition in the fuel supply market on behalf of low-income consumers
• To work towards ensuring that the housing stock is capable of delivering affordable warmth
• To improve energy efficiency of the private rented sector
• To encourage benefit take-up and making the most of income opportunities

Nationally, over 25 per cent of households’ experience fuel poverty. This means that some of Poole’s most vulnerable households cannot afford to heat their homes to temperatures that maintain adequate comfort and health.

Trevor George, Private Sector Housing Manager, said: "It is important that we do all we can for those residents who may not be able to heat their homes adequately and this strategy will ensure we do this. The effects of fuel poverty can mean homes are sometimes cold and damp, which can aggravate illnesses such as asthma and reduce resistance to respiratory illnesses like influenza, pneumonia and bronchitis. Warmer healthier homes will deliver considerable benefits to many of the Borough’s most vulnerable residents, helping to improve their quality of life."

The launch will be attended by the individuals who have helped formulate the strategy, members include representatives from the local Primary Care Trust, Utility companies, community groups, housing associations, Citizen’s Advice Bureau, Energywatch and advice centres.

Leaflets containing information about insulation grants, which can help residents to conserve energy in the home, were distributed along with the recent Council tax leaflet.

The Government defines Fuel Poverty as households who need to spend more than 10 per cent of their income in an effort to keep warm. Fuel Poverty can be caused by a combination of a lack of affordable heating, insufficient insulation and low income.