The Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS) is a government initiative designed to assist the most vulnerable households in the UK by improving energy efficiency and reducing energy bills. Insulation Direct can help with GBIS grant applications for insulation, ensuring that families receive the support they need.

How the Great British Insulation Scheme Benefits Vulnerable Families

Reducing Energy Bills

One of the primary benefits of the Great British Insulation Scheme is its ability to reduce energy bills. By making homes more energy efficient, the scheme helps low-income households keep more money in their pockets. This is especially crucial for families who struggle to make ends meet.

Targeting Specific Groups

The GBIS specifically targets those in the lowest income groups and those living in the least energy-efficient homes. By focusing on these groups, the scheme ensures that the most vulnerable households receive the assistance they need to improve their living conditions.

Improving Health

Living in a cold home can lead to various health problems, including respiratory issues and cardiovascular diseases. The GBIS aims to mitigate these health risks by improving the insulation of homes, thereby maintaining a warmer indoor environment and promoting better health for vulnerable individuals.

Suggested Improvements to the Scheme

Targeting by Location

To enhance the effectiveness of the GBIS, it's suggested that the scheme be targeted by location to address areas with high levels of energy poverty. This targeted approach could ensure that the most affected regions receive the necessary support.

Addressing Private Rented Properties

Another recommendation is to find ways to make the scheme more effective for private rented properties. This would involve working with landlords and tenants to ensure that rented homes are also upgraded for better energy efficiency.

Additional Considerations for Future Policies

Energy Efficiency as a Climate-Friendly Stimulus

Energy efficiency measures are being promoted as a key climate-friendly economic stimulus. Energy price rises impact those living in poorly-insulated homes the most. The UK’s housing stock is the leakiest in Europe, losing an average of 3°C of heat over 5 hours, compared to 1.5°C in Italy and 0.9°C in Norway.

Addressing Energy Poverty in Specific Groups

Certain groups, types of housing, and neighbourhoods are more affected by energy poverty than others. ONS-published data shows that those experiencing depressive symptoms or living in the most deprived areas were more likely to have found it difficult to keep warm this winter. Younger adults were also more likely to struggle than those aged over 65.

Targeted Interventions

To ensure that energy efficiency interventions have a restorative justice approach that benefits those most in need, future policies should be targeted. The following are specific areas that should be considered for future DESNZ energy efficiency policies:

• Households with Pre-payment Meters: Approximately 4 million people in the UK use prepayment meters (PPM) for energy, with 600,000 added in 2022. Higher PPM rates led to 3.2 million households going without energy at some point in 2022 due to being unable to pay the costs.

• Private Rental Properties: An estimated one in five households in England live in private rental properties. 11% of privately-rented homes reported problems with damp in 2021 – a number that may well increase. Tenants often require permission from landlords to install new measures, and landlords may be less likely to invest in such measures.

• Inter-war Housing: The 3.3 million homes built between 1918 and 1939 require targeted intervention, with 17% of households in these inter-war suburbs being in energy poverty. These houses are also responsible for an estimated 12% of England’s total carbon emissions.

• Those with Long-term Health Problems or Disabilities: People who rely on electricity for at-home medical equipment or mobility aids are affected by energy poverty due to the need for secure, continuous supply.

• Social Housing: This sector accounts for 17% of households in England. Social renters are those on the lowest incomes, are more likely to report being in rent arrears, and are less likely to have savings. Over half reported a household member having a long-term illness or disability.

By targeting these areas, future policies can ensure greater energy efficiency while benefiting those most in need.

Conclusion

The Great British Insulation Scheme plays a crucial role in helping vulnerable families in the UK by reducing energy bills, targeting specific groups, and improving health. However, there is room for improvement to make the scheme even more effective.

Insulation Direct can assist with GBIS grant applications for insulation, helping families take full advantage of this beneficial scheme. CONTACT US TODAY to learn how we can support you in improving your home's energy efficiency.

Sources

1. University of Bristol - Study on How the Great British Insulation Scheme can help the most vulnerable

2. GOV.UK - Summary of the Great British Insulation Scheme: January 2024