Thousands more pensioners across North Lincolnshire will benefit as the council relaunches its hugely popular energy-saving cooking scheme.
Almost 8,000 older residents previously received free air fryers, slow cookers or one-cup kettles to help them eat healthily and cut energy bills. Now, the scheme is back – and even more pensioners will be able to take advantage.
Cllr Rob Waltham, leader of North Lincolnshire Council, said: “We know many pensioners continue to struggle with the cost of living crisis, still rising energy costs and that some people lost their winter fuel allowance – so we are stepping up once again to help.
“The scheme proved hugely popular – being able to support all older residents to eat healthily and keep energy bills down is important, we know it matters.
“These cooking appliances made a difference to thousands of people last time, so we’re bringing them back. Thousands more pensioners will benefit.
“While others shout from the sidelines, we’re getting on with the job – delivering real support to the people who need it most. This scheme is a great example of how we are keeping our promise to making life better for local pensioners right now.”
Anyone who received an appliance last time will not be able to register again with each eligible household able to receive one energy-efficient cooking appliance – such as an air fryer, slow cooker, or one-cup kettle – along with access to free healthy cooking sessions to help them get the most out of it.
How to apply
Pensioners can register easily by filling in the online form, or by visiting one of the local community hubs in Ashby, Barton, Brigg, Crowle, Epworth or Scunthorpe, where staff can help with the process. Deliveries will begin from the middle of September into hubs where people will be able to collect their appliance.
Cllr Tim Mitchell, cabinet member for sustainability and transformation, said: “We are reaffirming our commitment to supporting residents by prioritising pensioners who did not receive a low-energy appliance during the previous roll-out.
“Despite previous best efforts, many pensioners did not benefit, we’ve recognised that shortfall and have taken decisive steps to close the gap.
“This is about providing practical support that makes a real difference. We’ve listened to local people and acted. These aren’t empty promises – thousands of pensioners have already benefited, and we’re proud to be bringing the scheme back. It’s about standing by our communities as we always have done.”
