This project was set up in 2011 by 'Sustainability Matters in Stafford Borough' and supported by the Council. Its aim was to: help tackle fuel poverty; help householders save energy and money and; to help reduce carbon emissions and tackle climate change.

Funding for this project included £10,000 from Awards for All plus £2,000 from Stafford Borough Council.  Local company ‘Active Energy Assessors’ kindly sponsored the initiative, through the loan of the thermal imaging camera.

Free energy surveys and advice were delivered to just over 50 householders and a thermal imaging camera was used to pinpoint defects in insulation or ‘leaks’ in the buildings.

Carried out by a qualified Domestic Energy Assessor, each household received an energy report indicating possible actions to improve energy efficiency, and giving information about cheaper tariffs, grants and special deals and help as appropriate.

Numerous events and awareness raising activities took place involving churches, community centres and schools, so that the ‘reach’ of the project was extensive.

Project Leader, Beryl Metcalf, who lives in the area, was able to use her local knowledge to great benefit.

We also worked with community centres, supporting practical energy improvements as well as engaging in outreach work to the community. Energy audits and the subsequent installation of energy measures were carried out at the Holmcroft Youth and Community Centre and St Bertelin’s Church, Stafford North End Community Centre and the Arthur Findlay Centre.

The Warmer Holmcroft project broadened out to include the support and promotion of cycling too, since cycling is another great way to save energy and money, and new cycle parking has been installed at several sites in the area.

There has also been work with Noah’s Ark Nursery at Holmcroft Youth and Community Centre, to improve the grounds for ‘wild play’ with the addition of some willow features and log seating/stepping stones, as well as with St Bertelin’s Cubs, who are thus involved with a gardening project with the two local primary schools.