Women's Policy Group Welcomes Warm Healthy Homes Fund but Calls for Stronger Focus on Women's Experience of Fuel Poverty

19 August 2026 - The WRDA led Women's Policy Group (WPG) has welcomed the Department's proposed Warm Healthy Homes Fund as a significant improvement on previous fuel poverty interventions, while urging government to strengthen the scheme by recognising the disproportionate impact of fuel poverty on women and ensuring adequate long-term investment. You can read the full response here.

The WPG warns that fuel poverty cannot be effectively addressed without understanding its gendered nature. The response highlights evidence showing that women often face multiple and intersecting barriers that increase our vulnerability to energy insecurity, particularly during ongoing cost-of-living pressures. Investment in tackling fuel poverty should be viewed as a long-term investment rather than a cost.

While supporting the proposed eligibility criteria, including the higher income threshold and the exclusion of certain benefits from income calculations, the WPG expressed concern that some households experiencing fuel poverty may still be excluded. The Group called for regular reviews to ensure eligibility remains as inclusive as possible. The consultation response also recommends that priority for support should not be determined solely by a property's energy rating. Instead, the WPG advocates a broader assessment that takes account of factors such as disability, age, caring responsibilities, the presence of children, and wider socio-economic circumstances.

The WPG welcomed proposals to improve energy efficiency measures in the private rented sector but stressed the importance of protecting tenants from rent increases or eviction following publicly funded improvements. In addition, the Group called for more comprehensive support for households throughout the application and installation process, including assistance with applications, access to non-digital support, regular follow-up contact after installation, and accessible guidance for residents on how to maximise the benefits of new energy technologies.

Finally, the WPG urged the Department to undertake an ambitious public awareness campaign to ensure the scheme reaches those most oppressed by fuel poverty and in greatest need of support.

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-ENDS -

Contact:

Elaine Crory;

Women's Sector Lobbyist, WRDA elaine.crory@wrda.net

Meghan Hoyt;

Women's Sector Lobbyist Policy Assistant, WRDA meghan.hoyt@wrda.net‍ ‍