VULNERABLE and elderly residents in Wiltshire can access financial support and practical advice on how to keep warm this winter.

The Surviving Winter Fund, administered by the Community Foundation, gives out grants of up to £200 to residents who spend significant amounts on heating their homes.

Wiltshire Council pays contributions to the fund will go to people in the county The council is also one of nine local authorities funding Severn Wye Energy to provide free, impartial and local energy advice on the Warm and Well advice line on:

• Simple changes in the home to reduce energy consumption or cut bills.

• Grants, loans or other forms of funding available for energy improvements.

• Understanding energy bills or help with changing suppliers.

• Signposting to other organisations which can offer advice.

Councillor Keith Humphries, Cabinet member for public health and protection at Wiltshire Council, said: “We know there are households in Wiltshire who have to make a choice between heating their homes and putting food on the table. Help is available and we hope that people will contact the helpline for advice and information.”