Cheshire & Merseyside uses population health tools to support those most at risk of fuel poverty
Read More
Fuel Poverty: Understanding the Issue and Its Impact
An estimated 13% of households (3.17 million) were living in fuel poverty in England in 2023 (1), according to the Government's annual fuel poverty statistics (last released in February 2024).
This highlights the ongoing struggle faced by millions of households unable to afford adequate heating - something Graphnet's Fuel Poverty Dashboard can help tackle.
What is Fuel Poverty?
A household is classified as being in fuel poverty if its:
1. Fuel poverty energy efficiency rating is Band D or below, and;
2. Disposable income (after housing and fuel costs) falls below the poverty line.
This is a critical issue, as cold indoor temperatures can significantly impact the health of people of all ages.
Fuel Poverty and Health Inequality
Income plays a significant part in the growth of fuel poverty, making it difficult for many households to afford the energy they need to heat their homes. On top of that, rising energy costs and housing that isn’t energy efficient means that some groups are more vulnerable than others.
Certain demographics are disproportionately affected by fuel poverty, including:
· Young adults: A report by ‘UK in a Changing Europe’ indicates that approximately 25% of young households, where the oldest person is between 16-24 years old, face fuel poverty in England (2).
· People with disabilities and long-term health problems: Approximately 3.6 million disabled people are currently experiencing fuel poverty (3).
· Ethnic minority households: The average fuel poverty gap for white households was £233, which was 36% higher than the £171 gap for ethnic minority households (4), according to the UK Government's Ethnicity Facts and Figures, in the two years leading up to March 2021.
· Households with children, especially single-parent households: In 2023, 28.8% of single-parent households in England were classified as fuel poor (5).
Many of these groups, particularly children, young people, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions, face a higher risk of cold-related health problems.
Health Risks of Living in a Cold Home
In 2019, the Local Government Association estimated the NHS spends at least £2.5 billion annually on treating illnesses directly associated with cold, damp and unsafe homes (6).
Among other issues, low temperatures increase the risk of:
· Cardiovascular issues: Increased risk of strokes and heart attacks due to raised blood pressure.
· Respiratory infections: Higher likelihood of pneumonia, bronchitis, bronchiolitis, and COPD.
· Injury risks: Falls and other injuries caused by reduced strength and dexterity.
· Mental health decline: Worsening depression, anxiety, and stress.
Alongside the direct impact of cold households, other environmental factors such as damp and mould can aggravate long-term conditions, including asthma, chronic pain, and cardiovascular and respiratory diseases.
Graphnet’s Fuel Poverty Dashboard: A Data-Driven Solution
At Cheshire and Merseyside ICB, Graphnet’s Fuel Poverty Dashboard has been implemented using population health data to identify individuals who are most vulnerable and in need of urgent intervention.
How Does the Dashboard Work?
1. It analyses population health data to identify those at risk (including people with COPD).
2. It categorises individuals based on priority needs as defined by Cheshire & Merseyside ICB.
3. Multi-agency teams proactively contact high-priority individuals to provide support and interventions.
Types of Support Provided
· Healthcare referrals: GP appointments and local Wellbeing Services.
· Energy assistance: Support from Affordable Warmth Units.
· Financial aid: Connection with Energy Plus Projects, a charity helping citizens access lower energy tariffs and warmer homes.
To read more about how Cheshire and Merseyside ICB has used Graphnet’s Fuel Poverty Dashboard, download our case study, or conduct some further reading.
Sources:
