HELP is at hand for some of the most vulnerable people in the community this winter.

The Community Foundation for Wiltshire and Swindon is launching an appeal that will help elderly and vulnerable people to pay for their fuel bills during the colder months.

The Surviving Winter campaign aims to help those who struggle to afford to heat their homes.

The charity is appealing to anyone who can afford to sacrifice some of their winter fuel allowance to help others.

Rosemary Macdonald, chief executive of the Community Foundation for Wiltshire and Swindon, said: “Winter is a dangerous time for older people. There are 35,000 households in fuel poverty in Wiltshire, which is 12.4 per cent of the county’s population. Over half include someone over the age of 60.

“We are also tackling the problem of isolation among older people during winter. Older people can become more cut off and struggle to leave the house in the colder months. Last year we distributed over £63,000 in grants and this year we hope to help even more.

“If you are not fuel poor, please think about donating some or all of your winter fuel payment. You could help an older person survive this winter.”

For more information call 01380 729284 or visit wscf.org.uk.