OLDER people in Darlington are set to benefit from a charity project aimed at keeping people warm and safe this winter.

Age UK Darlington’s ‘keep well, keep warm’ campaign has received a grant from the national Age UK charity.

The money will fund an information and advice service related to everything about heat and provide free and confidential advice on fuel and energy related issues.

It will also provide practical assistance in the form of emergency oil-filled radiators and thermometers to help vulnerable, elderly people keep safe and warm in the winter months.

Gillian Peel, chief executive of Age UK Darlington, said: “Through our project we hope to help around 250 to 500 local older people stay warm at home this winter.

“It is really needed in Darlington because some of the poorest wards in the country are located in the borough and many clients are currently living in fuel poverty and we believe it will help by providing real practical advice and assistance by empowering older people with the knowledge and support to improve their quality of living over the winter period.”

Older people and their families can call Age UK for advice, for free, on 0800-169-6565, or visit spreadthewarmth.org.uk