⚠️ ECO4 has closed to new applications — here’s the help you can get nowECO4 grants are no longer available. See the grants and funding you can get now.

If the cold weather effects your health, you may be entitled to help from the government to improve the energy efficiency of your house.

The ECO4 and GBIS schemes are government-supported initiatives in the UK aimed at improving energy efficiency and supporting vulnerable households, including those with health conditions exacerbated by cold weather.

Here’s why they focus on this group:

Health Impacts of Cold Homes

  • Exacerbation of Chronic Conditions: Cold and damp environments can worsen respiratory conditions (e.g., asthma, COPD) and cardiovascular diseases. For individuals with weakened health, staying warm is critical to managing their conditions.
  • Increased Risk of Illness: Cold homes can lead to higher incidences of colds, flu, and even hypothermia in extreme cases, especially in the elderly or those with mobility issues.
  • Preventative Healthcare By addressing cold-related health risks through better home heating and insulation, these initiatives can reduce the strain on healthcare systems. Warmer homes can lead to fewer hospital admissions and GP visits, particularly during winter.

Cold homes have been directly linked to adverse health outcomes, particularly among the elderly, children, and individuals with pre-existing conditions. Prolonged exposure to cold indoor temperatures can exacerbate respiratory illnesses such as asthma or bronchitis and increase the risk of cardiovascular events like heart attacks or strokes.

Those’ no ‘se’ with weakened immune systems or mobility issues, the inability to stay warm can lead to further complications, including hypothermia or increased susceptibility to infections. Additionally, the psychological toll of living in a cold home, including stress and anxiety over rising energy bills, can further deteriorate an individual’s health. By addressing these issues, government grants contribute to better health outcomes and prevent avoidable hospitalisations.

Moreover, these schemes have a broader societal impact by reducing healthcare costs and supporting public health goals. By tackling the root causes of cold-related illnesses, grants like ECO4 and GBIS not only improve individual health but also lessen the strain on healthcare systems. For example, fewer emergency visits and reduced admissions for cold-related illnesses allow healthcare providers to allocate resources more effectively. 

Additionally, these programs contribute to environmental sustainability by promoting energy efficiency, reducing carbon emissions, and fostering long-term economic savings for households. In this way, such initiatives demonstrate how tackling housing quality is a vital component of public health strategy, benefiting individuals, communities, and the environment alike.

What Health Conditions are Covered?

 Cardiovascular Conditions:

  • Hypertension (high blood pressure)
  • Coronary heart disease
  • Stroke and transient ischemic attack (TIA)
  • Congestive heart failure

Respiratory Diseases:

  • Asthma
  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
  • Chronic bronchitis
  • Emphysema

Limited Mobility:

  • Arthritis (e.g., osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis)
  • Neurological disorders affecting movement (e.g., multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease)
  • Conditions causing chronic pain or restricted physical function (e.g., fibromyalgia)

Immunosuppression:

  • Individuals undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy
  • Organ transplant recipients
  • Autoimmune diseases requiring immunosuppressive treatment (e.g., lupus, Crohn’s disease)

Eligibility also depends upon your homes EPC. By reducing the health risks associated with cold living environments, such as respiratory and cardiovascular complications, these initiatives contribute to healthier lives, lower healthcare costs, and a more sustainable future.

If you or someone you know may benefit from these grants, it’s worth exploring your options to create a safer, warmer home environment. Click here to look further into your eligibility and take the first step toward accessing support that could make a meaningful difference in your health and well-being.