Fuel poverty charity National Energy Action (NEA) and energy company E.ON have joined forces to launch a new scheme aimed at tackling fuel poverty and unemployment in Exeter by offering free training in energy efficiency for local jobseekers.

Exeter, where 2,010 people received Jobseeker's Allowance during September 2012*, is one of five areas in the country to benefit from the Community Energy Fit project, which aims to reduce fuel poverty while improving the skills and job prospects of unemployed residents.

The Community Energy Fit training session will take place at the Civic Centre on the morning of Monday 12th November. It will provide free energy efficiency information for unemployed people which they can then share with family, friends and neighbours who are looking for ways to lower their energy bills.

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Anyone who attends the session can then undertake free follow-up training leading to the City & Guilds qualification in energy efficiency. It is hoped that some of these project participants, once qualified, will choose to volunteer as Community Energy Champions, going out locally to provide essential advice on keeping warm affordably, while learning new skills and improving their job prospects.

Lorraine Donaldson, Project Development Manager at NEA, said: "I'm delighted that we're able to bring Community Energy Fit to Exeter. Over 6,000 households in Exeter are considered to be in fuel poverty, spending more than 10% of their income on the energy needed to heat their homes to an adequate level. Taking part in this training means that participants could save money on their fuel bills at home, learn how to help other members of their communities save money and boost their employment prospects."

The scheme is supported by a range of local organisations, including Jobcentre Plus, Bicton EaRTH, Exeter City Council, Signpost and Sanctuary Housing, and Exeter CVS.

(CD/GK)