POLICE community support officers in Bury are working to help reduce the number of people at risk of becoming victims of the cold in their own homes this winter.

Some of the division’s PCSOs have been trained to identify signs of fuel poverty in the homes of vulnerable people when they carry out home visits in the community.

Once identified, PCSOs will then be able to refer the resident for specialist support and funding which could see them receive grants for heating, loft insulation and other energy saving measures.

The affordable warmth access referral Mechanism (AWARM) training course has been set up by Bury Council in partnership with the energy saving trust advice centre to help address fuel poverty across the borough.

Fuel poverty exists when a household needs to spend more than ten per cent of its income on fuel and power in order to maintain adequate warmth for health and comfort. In 2005 it was estimated that 10,255 households in Bury were in fuel poverty.

AWARM training is being given to PCSOs, health professionals, care workers and other front line staff who undertake home visits.

PC Carrie Robertson said: “Rising fuel costs this winter mean that many vulnerable people on a limited income may have to make difficult choices about how often to switch on their heating at the time of year when they need it most.”

Bury Council’s affordable warmth officer Michelle Hodgson said: “The scheme aims to improve residents’ lives by making homes warmer and reducing fuel costs. Grants money may be available to help improve living conditions and combat health problems that are exacerbated by living in cold, damp homes.

“Other services are available including advice about additional benefit payments to help people maximise their income.”