Tag: Winter

SP Energy Networks advises Edinburgh and Lothians customers how to prepare for potential power cuts this winter

Annual electricity network winter safety leaflet dropping through millions of doors 

SP Energy Networks is reminding its millions of customers how to prepare for potential power cuts as winter approaches.

With shorter days and stormier weather on the horizon as the seasons change, the electricity network operator is sending out winter advice leaflets to more than 3.5 million homes and businesses across central & southern Scotland, Cheshire, Merseyside, North & Mid Wales and North Shropshire.

The leaflet is designed to put key information and advice directly into the hands of customers so they are prepared in case the lights go out. It contains top tips for all customers as well as specialist information for those who may rely on medical equipment or be eligible to join the Priority Service Register and get extra support.

Kendal Morris, Customer Services Director at SP Energy Networks, said: “While power cuts don’t happen often, we know that winter brings in windier weather and seasonal storms that can affect our network and impact power supplies, so it’s vital we ensure our customers are prepared for what may come.

A few simple steps – as set out in our leaflet – really can make all the difference to help our customers stay safe and know where to get the support they need if the power goes out. Look out for your leaflet dropping through your door.

“It’s also vital customers ensure we have their correct and up-to-date contact details so we can keep in touch as needed and also have the right information if compensation becomes due under our Guaranteed Standards of Service, with payments then processed automatically, so make sure you let us know if you move house or change your phone number.”

The winter advice leaflets are being delivered in phases throughout October, with all customers set to receive theirs by the end of the month. 

SP Energy Networks top tips for preparing for potential power cuts are:

  1. Save the 105 power cut number in your phone or somewhere easy to find.
  2. Keep a torch and new batteries nearby.
  3. Charge your phone and any power packs.
  4. Have warm clothes or extra blankets ready.
  5. Fill a flask with hot water.
  6. Use a battery-powered radio for updates

The electricity network operator is also encouraging eligible customers who may need additional support in the event of a power cut to sign up for its free Priority Services Register. 

The service is available to anyone who would benefit from additional assistance including people who rely on medical equipment at home, customers aged 60 and over, households with children under five, people with long-term health needs, or anyone who feels they may need extra help.

Registered customers receive tailored support and proactive updates if there is a power cut in their area, as well as access to a dedicated 24/7 helpline. Further information on how to register is detailed in the customer leaflet or on the SP Energy Networks website.

For more information and guidance on how to prepare for a power cut, visit:

www.spenergynetworks.co.uk/powercut

‘Plan ahead and look out for each other’: Swinney plea as winter bites

Resilience room updated on impacts of snowfall

The Scottish Government’s Resilience Room (SGORR) convened yesterday to discuss ongoing efforts to recover from the recent heavy snow in northern Scotland and preparations for further snow and ice warnings.

The meeting was chaired by Justice Secretary Angela Constance and attended by First Minister John Swinney, Cabinet Secretaries, the Met Office, transport operators, Police Scotland, local authorities, resilience partnerships and utilities companies.

First Minister John Swinney has asked people to continue to follow advice on staying safe in winter and thanked those involved in supporting others.

Mr Swinney said yesterday: “The cumulative impact of the heavy snowfall across northern Scotland has been significant and there has been a huge effort to keep transport moving and public services open.

“At present, there is still some travel disruption but trunk roads are open and rail, ferry and air services are working to get back to normal as quickly as possible. Likewise many schools are closed today but remote learning is in place for young people, while contingency plans are in place for affected health and social care services.

“There will be further snow and ice, with yellow warnings in large parts of Scotland and temperatures set to remain cold, so impacts will continue to be felt in the coming days which could include transport problems and I would encourage everyone to plan ahead, look out for each other and pay close attention to  the range of weather and travel advice available.

“I want to thank everyone who has worked so hard, day and night, to keep Scotland open and moving. Public services have been collaborating well in sharing information and vehicles, while I have heard of truly exceptional efforts by farmers, volunteers and members of the public offering to clear local roads, dig out cars and keep people safe. That community spirit is truly heartening to hear.

“Ministers will continue to keep the situation under review.”

Assistant Chief Constable Alan Waddell said: “Local resilience partnerships are continuing to meet to co-ordinate and deliver the response to disruption experienced by communities in the north and north east of Scotland following heavy snowfall over the weekend.

“We have been working closely with resilience partners across local authorities, other emergency service partners, transport partners, NHS and health and social care partnerships, and other local organisations to support communities affected by adverse weather and keep public services open where possible.

“Some services may be impacted by adverse weather, and I would encourage the public to check on neighbours or relatives, if they are able to do so safely.

“Heavy snow and ice means driving conditions are likely to continue to be hazardous in some areas. Our advice is to plan ahead and consider if your journey is really necessary.

“If you need to travel, please fully clear your vehicle windows of snow and ice before you drive, drive to the conditions, be prepared for delays and allow extra time for your journey.”

Met Office weather warnings are available on the Met Office website.

Flood alerts are issued by the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency and can be viewed on their website. 

Advice on preparing for severe weather can be found on the Ready Scotland website.

Letter: Cats Protection urges action as cold snap bites

Dear Editor 

As temperatures plummet, we urge people to keep a caring eye on stray and abandoned cats without access to shelter or food. For them, the risk of hypothermia or painful frostbite is real.  

In the past 12 months, Cats Protection has taken in more than 26,000 cats left behind by life, including over 3,000 kittens from unwanted litters.  

Through no fault of their own, these cats have been given up or abandoned. They know only cold, fear and hunger. But we’re here for them until the tough times pass. 

Our winter fundraising and awareness campaign (cats.org.uk/alfie) aims to provide food, shelter and care for neglected cats.  

We have some simple tips to help all cats stay safe and warm this winter:  

  • Provide warm, draught-free resting spots. Self-heating pads are ideal for older cats. 
  • Tap your car bonnet and check underneath before starting up – cats love to hide there.
  • Check sheds and garages to ensure that cats seeking shelter don’t become trapped inside. 
  • Wipe your cat’s paws and coat when they come in. Grit, salt or antifreeze can be toxic if licked. 
  • Provide fresh water, checking it cannot freeze over. An indoor litter tray means your cat doesn’t have to venture out. 
  • Keep your cat in at night – and lock cat flaps to prevent them sneaking out in the cold. 

Cats are good at finding warm places to rest but for outdoor cats struggling to find shelter, we have tips to create a safe and dry winter bolthole that might save a life this winter. 

Yours faithfully  

Daniel Warren-Cummings 

Central Behaviour Officer, Cats Protection 

Children First urges families worried about bills in Edinburgh to call support line during cold snap

As Scotland faces a sharp drop in temperatures, national children’s charity, Children First, is encouraging families in Edinburgh who are struggling with the cost of living and keeping warm this winter to reach out for help.

The charity warns that they are hearing every day from parents and carers that are struggling to make ends meet and provide basic essentials for their children.

Children First’s support line offers practical, emotional and financial help to families across Scotland 365 days a year.

The team has seen the number of callers rise by close to 50 percent so far this year. They can help with benefit checks, budgeting advice, and accessing emergency support to ensure families stay warm and well this winter.

Simon McGowan, Assistant Director at Children First, said: “We want every parent and carer in Scotland to know they are not alone if they are worried about paying bills or keeping their children warm.

“Our friendly support line team is here to listen and provide expert advice to ensure families get the support they need. We understand how hard it can be trying to make ends meet and the pressure families are under.”

In 2024, Children First’s support line helped families secure close to £2.5 million in financial gains and deal with half a million pounds in debts to make them more manageable.

Kinship carer Tony* who is bringing up his two-year old granddaughter Cara* and had been struggling to make ends meet, got help with his finances from Children First’s support line.

He said: “It was only when Children First support line got involved that things started to get better. I feel like a massive weight has been lifted off my shoulders, it’s such a relief.”

Parents and carers can contact the support line via webchat at www.childrenfirst.org.uk/supportline or call free on 08000 28 22 33.

The service is available seven days a week:

Monday to Friday: 9am–9pm
Weekends: 9am–12 noon.

For more information, visit www.childrenfirst.org.uk.

*Names have been changed to protect the anonymity of the family.

Aldi encourages Edinburgh shoppers to support local foodbanks ahead of colder months

As the colder months approach, Aldi is reminding shoppers in Edinburgh of the most essential items to donate to foodbanks via its in-store donation points.

A list of priority items has been created based on the demands of foodbanks, charities and community groups across the UK and includes everything from tinned food to cereals and cleaning products.

According to community giving platform Neighbourly, who works with Aldi stores to redistribute customer food donations to good causes, the demand for foodbanks can increase by nearly 30%  over the colder months.

Luke Emery, National Sustainability Director at Aldi UK, said: “We know autumn and winter are busy periods for foodbanks and organisations like Neighbourly who support those in need across the UK.  

“We’re so grateful to all customers that have used our in-store donation points so far this year, and we hope this list of items will make it easy for shoppers to pick those that are most needed over the colder months.”

Steve Butterworth, CEO of Neighbourly, added: “With many foodbanks and local charities facing increased demand in the months ahead, any extra support we can get will be vital.

“By highlighting the most needed items, we hope to make it easier for Aldi shoppers to support their local communities.”

The most in-demand items are:

  • Tinned food
  • Toiletries
  • Tea / coffee
  • Breakfast cereals
  • Juices and soft drinks
  • UHT milk
  • Laundry and cleaning products
  • Rice and pasta
  • Cooking sauces / oils / condiments
  • Pet food

Beware of leaks as temperatures rise

As temperatures in Scotland are set to rise after yellow weather warnings for snow and ice are lifted, homeowners should be vigilant for water leaks.

The shift from freezing to warmer weather can cause the underground water pipes which transport water from the water company supply network to customers’ homes to move and crack.

A survey by WaterSafe, the national register of approved plumbers, revealed that 31 percent of respondents were unaware of their responsibility for the water supply pipe running into their homes.

Additionally, 47 per cent wouldn’t know who to contact if they discovered a leak.

Signs of a leaking water supply pipe include:

  • Reduced water pressure at the kitchen tap
  • A waterlogged front garden
  • Noisy pipes
  • An unusually high water bill.

For properties with a water meter, hidden leaks can be detected by taking meter readings one hour apart, while the property’s water supply is switched off using the internal stop tap. 

Those without a water meter should contact their water company for advice. 

Further help is at hand from specialist water supply pipe installers, who can find and fix leaking underground pipes.

Julie Spinks, Director at WaterSafe, explains: “While many of us are quite rightly on the lookout for leaking pipes inside our homes when freezing temperatures hit, you may not know that water supply pipes are vulnerable to leaks during a sudden freeze-thaw.

“If you suspect your underground water supply pipe is leaking, you should turn off your internal stop tap and take two meter readings, one hour apart.

“If the readings differ, you might have a leak and should contact a WaterSafe-approved contractor for further advice.

“Leaks can be harder to detect if you don’t have a water meter, so contact your water company for advice.  If you live in a rented property, it’s a good idea to check with your landlord in the first instance.”

According to the Association of British Insurers, claims for escape of water damage are one of the most common types, with insurers paying out £1.8 million for it every day.

Find your local WaterSafe-approved water supply pipe installer at www.watersafe.org.uk.

*Survey of 2,000 UK adults, 2021.

Almost 4 million pensioners face being cold at home this winter

3.9 million British pensioners could be facing a cold winter, following research which reveals over a third (36%) of over 65s expect to be too cold at home as temperatures drop.

The study found that over 65s are the most likely to be cold at home of any age group, with more than a fifth (21%) saying they can’t get their house warm on cold days, no matter what they try.

As a result, 34% of pensioners worry the temperature of their house is bad for their health on cold days, and it’s no wonder. The research, conducted by SpeedComfort, reveals that British homes are falling short of recommended healthy temperatures, putting older and vulnerable people at serious risk.

On average, British pensioners anticipate the temperatures inside their homes will drop down to 13.9°C this winter, over six degrees cooler than the World Health Organisation’s recommendations for older and vulnerable people (20°C).

According to Age UK, this drop in living temperatures can make older people more susceptible to infections, disease and viruses, and impact long-term respiratory and musculoskeletal conditions that many already live with.

The new research backs this up, with data confirming that older people are most vulnerable to the mental and physical effects of the cold.

The survey found that half (50%) of over 65s feel physical discomfort because of the drop in temperature – 7% higher than the average UK adult. Almost the same proportion (49%) say it makes them feel down.

On top of this, 46% of older people feel less motivated when cold and almost a quarter (23%) believe they get ill more often when their home is cold.

Wouter Heuterman, CEO of SpeedComfort, comments: “It’s heartbreaking to discover just how many vulnerable older people in Britain will be feeling the effects of the cold this coming winter.

“With temperatures beginning to drop and the cost of bills continuing to rise, the next few months will present a significant challenge to many households across the UK. But, for older and vulnerable people, the prospect of being cold at home this winter is particularly concerning, given the significant associated health risks.  

“We know times are tough, so, if you are over 65 or have a loved one who is, it’s so important to consider alternative ways of keeping warm and safe this winter. To help with this, we’ve put together a guide for staying warm without increasing energy usage this winter.”

Find out how to stay warm on a budget this winter.

RoSPA: Control your speed to save lives this season

Slow your speed to save lives, that’s the message from The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) as we enter a period of wintry weather.

Caitlin Taylor, Road Safety Manager for RoSPA said: “The UK will is entering a time of wintry weather leading to travel disruption, which can pose unique risks to drivers and pedestrians – these risks are increased if someone is speeding.

“Higher speeds mean that drivers have less time to identify and react to what is happening around them, and it takes longer for the vehicle to stop, removes the driver’s safety margin and turns near misses into collisions.

“Driving at 30mph, vehicles are travelling at around three car lengths a second – one blink and the driver may fail to see the early warning brake lights; a short glance away and the movement of a child behind a parked car will be missed.

“With that in mind, and the poor visibility this season poses, it’s clear to see the tragic consequences speeding could have”.

RoSPA advises the following when driving in darker periods of the day:

Be prepared: As the wintry weather sets in, it is crucial for motorists to adjust their driving habits. The decreased visibility during early mornings and evenings demands heightened caution. RoSPA urges drivers to use dipped headlights, and ensure clean windshields, to be extra cautious when navigating poorly lit roads.

Control your Speed: Poor driving conditions and darkness increase the risks associated with speeding. The lack of visibility, compounded by higher speeds, can lead to devastating accidents. The Department for Transport (DfT) reports that in 2023, exceeding the speed limit was deemed a contributory factor related for 21% of all fatal collisions. In 8% of fatal collisions, driving too fast for the conditions was deemed a contributory factor. 1.

RoSPA emphasises that adhering to speed limits and driving to the conditions is paramount, especially when visibility is reduced, or weather conditions are poor.

Caitlin Taylor continues: “If you must travel during poor weather, I suggest leaving ample time for the journey, ensuring you can travel within the speed limit, and try to maintain a safe distance behind other road users.

“As we age, our ability to adapt to changing light reduces, which impacts how we see colours and contrasts in low-light conditions. It also takes longer for the eyes to recover from glare”

An estimated £5 billion in support has been paid throughout Winter to help families with energy costs

Nearly £5 billion of support has been paid to help households with their energy bills this winter  

  • Over £4 billion was paid to pensioners between November and March through the Winter Fuel Payment and Pensioner Cost of Living Payment   
  • An estimated £550 million has been spent this winter as part of the Warm Home Discount to support three million households   
  • Over 1.1 million £25 Cold Weather Payments have been made to households in England and Wales

Halving inflation has ensured everyone’s money goes further, however we remain committed to supporting households across the country with 11.8 million pensioners receiving up to £600 in Winter Fuel Payments and Pensioner Cost of Living Payments.

On top of this, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has today estimated over 1.1 million Cold Weather Payments worth £29.6 million were paid out from November until the end of March – with over £9 million of this going to low-income pensioners receiving Pension Credit.    

Further support was also made available through the Warm Home Discount – to support three million households at risk of fuel poverty, allowing families to keep costs down and more money in their pockets. The Government expects partnered energy suppliers to have spent around £550 million this winter across Great Britain, through direct bill rebates as well other financial and energy efficiency support. 

This support was needed to protect everyday Brits from the inflationary impact of Putin’s illegal war in Ukraine – helping millions of people get through the winter. Now – with energy bills dropping, wages rising, and taxes being slashed – people are set to have more cash in their pocket to help fire up the economy and beckon in more growth.   

We have turned a corner after the shocks of the past few years, and we are in a new economic moment and 2024 will prove to be the year that the economy bounces back.  

Minister for Pensions, Paul Maynard said:  “This Government’s actions have provided vital support to pensioners most in need.

“Halving inflation has helped everyone’s finances, and we remain committed to protecting our older loved ones across the country, with 11.8 million pensioners receiving up to £600 in Winter Fuel and Pensioner Cost of Living Payments. 

“And we are uprating the State Pension further from next week, meaning the full yearly basic State Pension will be £3,700 higher than in 2010, whilst the full rate of the New State Pension will rise above £11,500 a year.”

From this week people will start to see an increase in their Local Housing Allowance rates – benefitting some of the poorest families on either Universal Credit or Housing Benefit who will gain around £800 a year on average. This puts more money in the pockets of the lowest earners – giving them more spending power to boost their local economy.  

The UK Government is delivering £108 billion of support over 2022-2025 – worth an average £3,800 per household – and will continue to drive down inflation to help everyone’s money go further.    

These measures are boosted in April with Universal Credit and other benefits rising in line with inflation by 6.7 percent, and the State Pension increasing by an inflation-busting 8.5 percent – making sure that targeted support is going to those who need it most.  

Amey gritters ready for action

GRITTER NAMING APPEAL 2023/2024 

Amey South-West Trunk Roads are once again running a popular gritter-naming appeal that has, to date, led to over 6,000 gritter names being submitted by the Scottish public for consideration.

The newly named gritters will join classics such as “Sir Grits Hoy”, “Yes Sir, Ice Can Boogie”, “Skid Vicious”, and “Sweet Child O’ Brine”. 

Winners from last year’s competition and new additions to the fleet for the 2023/2024 winter season include: 

  • “Kevin Fridges” (Comedian, Kevin Bridges) 
  • “Stone Cold Steve Frostin” (WWE Star and Actor, Steve Austin) 
  • “Keanu Freeze” (Actor, Keanu Reeves) 
  • “Polar Abdul” (Singer and American Idol Judge, Paula Abdul)
  • “Taylor Drift” (Singer, Taylor Swift) 
  • “Sleeter Andre” (Singer, Peter Andre) 
  • “Skate Bush” (Singer, Kate Bush) 

Scotland’s tradition of coming up with inventive and fun names for their gritter fleet has gone viral on social media and makes headlines around the world.

In December 2020, Amey’s South-West fleet, with their distinctive bright orange livery, attracted the attention of IRN-BRU® who named a gritter “Grits You Thru”.

In 2021, another iconic Scottish treat joined the fleet with staff at family-run bakery Tunnock’s coining a vehicle “Caramelt Wafer”. 

Gritter names can be submitted to Amey online from today via a page on swtrunkroads.scot

Gritter name reveals will take place on the @SWTRUNKROADS Facebook and Twitter channels and will appear live on the Traffic Scotland Gritter Tracker.  

To prepare for this Winter, Amey have amassed 21,000 tonnes of road salt, 231,000 litres of brine, and 50,000 litres of potassium acetate.

The winter service is overseen by 10 Winter Service Duty Officers (WSDO) who provide a 24/7 presence on the network. The 17,500-tonne capacity salt barn at Amey’s Polmadie Depot, established in 2021, will continue to provide increased resilience in tackling adverse weather conditions across the trunk road network. 

The South-West Winter Service is comprised of 27 Frontline Routes, 15 Patrol Routes, and 12 Footway Routes (requiring 197km of winter treatment).

The service is delivered by 56 Econ gritters and snowploughs, 16 footpath gritters, 12 tractors, and 115 Highways Operatives. Winter Patrol vehicles are equipped with the latest Mobile Condition Monitoring Equipment and are fitted with Dash Cams.

In addition, an innovative liquid brine solution is being used on all roads and footpaths, to provide a more effective clearance of ice and snow. 

Follow us on Twitter and Facebook @SWTrunkRoads