Vikki Howells AM urges Cynon Valley residents to ‘Get Ready for Winter’

With winter on the way, Vikki Howells AM has called on Cynon Valley residents to make sure they ‘Get Ready’ for the seasonal change in weather.

Vikki Howells met with British Gas to discuss how they support their customers by helping them access the free help and support with energy bills that is available, and how they make sure their customers are on the best possible gas and electricity tariffs.

British Gas described how they can install gas meters so customers know exactly how much energy they are using, and also how some customers may be eligible to extra help with their energy bills under the Warm Home Discount that benefited 700,000 UK customers last year. They also discussed the importance of annual boiler inspections in keeping Cynon Valley homes warm and safe.

Vikki Howells AM said:-

“It’s really important to be prepared for winter. I want everyone in Cynon Valley to understand what help is available for them, and for their family and friends.

“There are a number of simple steps that every constituent should take to make sure they’re doing all they can to keep their bills down and their home warm.

“Being energy efficient and keeping bills under control is really important, so I’d encourage people to get in touch with their energy supplier to find out what support is on offer.”

The Cynon Valley AM also met with Public Health Wales to talk about their work in encouraging more people to have the ‘flu jab’ this winter.

Vikki Howells AM said:-

“Last year, less than half of people in the groups most at risk from flu had their flu jab to minimise their risk of catching the virus.

“The vaccine is safe and easily administered, so make an appointment with your GP to beat flu before it beats you”.

Dr Richard Roberts, Head of the Vaccine Preventable Disease Programme at Public Health Wales, said:-

“Flu vaccine is strongly recommended for everyone at higher risk of severe influenza, a group which includes those aged 65 or over, people who have long term health conditions, pregnant women as well as all two to seven year olds. Flu vaccination is available free for all these groups, and also for those who are unpaid carers.”

Vikki Howells AM added:-

“If Cynon Valley residents make sure they are on the best deal with their energy supplier, and take precautions against flu by having the vaccine, they can get ready for winter and enjoy the festive period”.