Figures released by the Office for National Statistics estimate that in 2017/18 there were an estimated 50,100 excess winter deaths between December and March in England and Wales.
Office for National Statistics
This is the highest on record since 1975/76.
15,000 of these deaths are thought to be linked to living in a cold home. These deaths were avoidable and could have been prevented.
Jenny Holland, Chair of the End Fuel Poverty Coalition (EFPC) said:
“These figures are deeply shocking. We saw a staggering 40% leap in excess winter deaths las year compared with the number over the previous 5 years. There are many causes for these extra deaths, but over a third of them will have been related to living in a cold home.
“Every one of these preventable deaths has a tragic human story behind it. We call on Government to take urgent action to deliver the energy efficiency improvements to people’s homes that are so sorely needed. This will help alleviate winter pressures on GP surgeries and hospitals by tackling the avoidable illnesses and health problems linked to living in a cold home.”
Disability Rights UK is a member of the Coalition.
