Figures released by the Office for National Statistics today estimate that in 2017/18 there were an estimated 50,100 excess winter deaths (the number of deaths between December and March compared to those outside of these months) in England and Wales. This is the highest on record since 1975/76.
15,000 of these deaths are thought to be linked to living in a cold home. These deaths were avoidable and could have been prevented.
Jenny Holland, Chair of the End Fuel Poverty Coalition (EFPC) said:
“These figures are deeply shocking. We saw a staggering 40% leap in excess winter deaths last year compared with the number over the previous 5 years. There are many causes for these extra deaths, but over a third of them will have been related to living in a cold home.
“Every one of these preventable deaths has a tragic human story behind it. We call on Government to take urgent action to deliver the energy efficiency improvements to people’s homes that are so sorely needed. This will help alleviate winter pressures on GP surgeries and hospitals by tackling the avoidable illnesses and health problems linked to living in a cold home.”
Individual responses from members of the EFPC can be viewed by clicking on the members name; Age UK and National Energy Action.