The Chartered Institute of Environmental Health (CIEH) has raised concerns over a new report by the Resolution Foundation, which reveals that one in three households will face higher winter energy bills
50% of this figure will impact the nation’s poorest households this winter.
The CIEH has raised its concerns over the impact that higher winter energy bills will have on public health and the NHS.
Cold homes pose a significant risk to those with chronic ill-health, such as respiratory infections and cardiovascular health. Cold homes also increase the onset of asthma as well as a higher risk of stroke.
Cold homes cost the NHS £1.36bn annually
The “Manifesto for Environmental Health 2023″, published by the CIEH, explains the need to improve energy efficiency standards in homes and ensure they are cost-effective for residents.
The manifesto further emphasizes the commitment to promoting better indoor and outdoor air quality and addressing poor housing conditions, such as damp and mould.
Higher winter energy bills could not only cause monetary concerns. Inadequate insulation and heating can lead to dampness and mould, which poses serious health risks, especially for children and the elderly.
EHOs protect vulnerable people in all types of tenure against poor housing conditions by inspecting and enforcing housing regulations to ensure social housing is safe, habitable, and warm.
‘The rise in energy bills is not just a financial issue, but an environmental health concern’
Louise Hosking, executive director of environmental health at CIEH, commented: “Cold homes can lead to health issues, particularly in vulnerable groups.
“As recent tragic cases have highlighted, cold homes pose a significant risk to public health. Therefore, we urge policymakers to recognise these risks and to act urgently ahead of the winter months.”
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