Almost 100 people aged over 65 and living alone in Ryedale have no central heating, analysis shows.
Age UK said the figures are ‘of tremendous concern’ and urged the Government to ‘make sure that it is prepared for next winter’.
According to analysis of census 2021 data by the PA news agency, 4,236 people over the age of 65 lived alone in Ryedale – making up 28.6 per cent of the age group.
Of the elderly people living alone, 95 (2.2 per cent) did not have central heating.
Caroline Abrahams, charity director at older people’s charity Age UK said having limited money in later life impacts day-to-day living and exacerbates feelings of loneliness and disconnection from society.
Across England and Wales, about 3.1 million elderly people lived alone when the census took place in March 2021. Of them, 66,000 (2.1 per cent) had no central heating.
Figures are of 'tremendous concern'
Ms Abrahams said: “These figures are of tremendous concern, as older people lacking central heating often find it very difficult to stay warm during the winter months with potentially serious consequences for their health and wellbeing.”
She called on the Government to ensure it is prepared for next winter and said that expanding central heating access and providing suitable alternatives to keep older people warm will be “absolutely key”.
North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for health and adult services, Cllr Michael Harrison, said: “Although we have no direct influence over heating arrangements in privately-owned properties, we know there is a definite link between warm homes and good health.”
Cllr Harrison said the council currently supports people struggling to heat their homes with advice and support through via its North Yorkshire Warm and Well service.
This can be accessed through North Yorkshire Citizens Advice and Law Centre.
Further support comes in a sustainable warmth grant scheme to help people save money, reduce fuel poverty and cut their carbon dioxide emissions.
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Kevin Hollinrake, MP for Thirsk and Malton, encouraged constituents on low incomes that are unable to properly heat their homes to “reach out for help”.
He directed these constituents to the Energy Company Obligation (ECO), which offers support with installing insulation and upgrading heating systems.
The Conservative added: “The Government took steps in March to help these lowest-income households, such as introducing cash payments of over £1200 and a cap on energy prices.
“Moreover, at the Autumn Statement 2022, the Government announced substantial support for the most vulnerable for 2023/24, including £300 cost-of-living payments for pensioners.
“I will continue to support constituents and local business in every way I can, in both my role as constituency MP and Business Minister.
“If any constituents need help or know of someone who does, please do contact my office.”
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