A SCHEME to help the most vulnerable keep warm in Burnley and Pendle this winter is set to be approved.

Councillors from Burnley and Pendle have teamed up to help reduce fuel poverty and tackle climate change for residents across the two boroughs.

The three-year home energy strategy will aim to improve efficiency, help the most vulnerable keep warm and tackle climate change through promoting renewable energy sources.

The councils’ scheme proposes to:

l Train frontline council staff to be ‘energy aware’ and to work with landlords to increase efficiency;

l Work with social services and the primary care trust to help those in fuel poverty;

l Raise awareness grants and discounts for poorer households struggling with energy bills.

Coun Martin Smith, from Burnley Council, said: “Fuel poverty is a major concern for both councils.

"It is not acceptable for residents to be going cold in the 21st century.

“Fuel prices may have gone through the roof but through our insulation programmes, we are hoping household heat does not go the same way.”

A plan is set to be put before senior Burnley councillors tomorrow.

Council bosses also want residents to sign up for the Switch On To Savings initiative, which offers a subsidised loft and cavity wall insulation scheme.

For more information call Burnley Council on 01282 425011.