Tackling the winter crisis for vulnerable communities: A commitment to social value

“I hope that these boxes will bring a bit of light into the lives of someone who may not be able to get out and about. Just to know you are being thought of and recognised can be the highlight of someone’s day.” Cllr Baroness O’Neill of Bexley OBE

?As part of our ongoing commitment to social value, we are proud to support Bexley Council with a ￡10,000 donation aimed at providing essential relief for vulnerable elderly residents who are facing an increasingly difficult winter. This funding will be used to create Bexley Boxes – care packages filled with warm clothing, food, and essential items. These boxes will reach approximately 2,500 housebound individuals most at risk from cold-related health issues, offering not just comfort but potentially life-saving assistance.

A growing national crisis

This initiative could not come at a more critical time. Across the UK, the winter fuel crisis continues to deepen, leaving millions of elderly residents in increasingly precarious situations.

·?????? An estimated 2.5 million older people are living in fuel poverty (Age UK).

·?????? 10,000 excess winter deaths annually in England are linked to cold homes (NEA).

The situation in Bexley reflects this broader trend, with approximately 34,000 older residents potentially impacted by reductions in winter fuel support. For many, this means tough choices between heating their homes and other basic needs. Research shows that nearly half of those affected may resort to heating only one room or wearing outdoor clothing indoors — strategies that offer temporary relief but fail to address the significant health risks of prolonged exposure to cold.

The hidden health costs of cold homes

Living in a cold home can have devastating health consequences, particularly for older adults. Studies have shown that inadequate heating increases the risk of respiratory illnesses, heart attacks, and strokes. It also exacerbates conditions such as arthritis, making daily life even more challenging for those already struggling. The NHS often sees a surge in hospital admissions during the winter months as a result of cold-related health issues, placing additional strain on an already overburdened system.

Collaborative solutions for meaningful change

Our partnership with Bexley Council demonstrates the power of collaborative action in addressing these challenges. By working closely with local authorities, we aim to provide not only immediate relief but also a model for how businesses and councils can come together to create impactful, community-focused solutions. The Bexley Boxes initiative is one example of how targeted support can make a tangible difference for those most at risk.

However, this is only one part of a much larger effort needed to address the systemic issues driving fuel poverty. Nationally, there is a growing need for sustainable policies that improve energy efficiency in homes, expand access to affordable energy, and ensure that vulnerable populations are adequately supported. Initiatives such as the warm home discount and government schemes for home insulation are steps in the right direction but require consistent investment and expansion to meet the scale of the problem.

Join us in giving the most vulnerable a better quality of life

At Capita, our commitment to creating real, lasting social value remains steadfast. The Bexley Boxes initiative reflects our dedication to improving lives – especially the most vulnerable in our communities.

But meaningful change requires a collective effort. If you’re as passionate as we are about tackling social challenges and driving positive change, let’s talk.

Connect with me directly to explore how we can collaborate to make an even bigger impact. By working together, councils and businesses can turn these challenges into opportunities for positive change.

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