Green Energy Doctor
As energy prices continue to rise, Barnet Council has launched a new campaign to support residents with free home energy efficiency advice, aimed at helping them reduce their energy bills and contribute to the borough’s ambitious goal of becoming net zero by 2042. In partnership with Groundwork London’s Green Doctor service, Barnet’s free home energy fix offers tailored energy-saving support through home visits to the borough’s most vulnerable residents, helping them save money, reduce energy consumption, and stay warm during the colder months.
The campaign comes at a crucial time, as the ongoing cost-of-living crisis and a predicted 10% increase in the energy price cap this winter leave many households struggling to heat their homes. In Barnet, with approximately 10% of households facing fuel poverty and 40% of Barnet's emissions from homes, there is a significant urgency to reduce both costs and environmental impact.
A Barnet Council spokesperson said:
"We understand that managing rising energy costs can be difficult, particularly for our vulnerable residents. By partnering with Green Doctors, we’re able to provide accessible, practical advice that can make a real difference in people’s lives and help us work towards our goal of a net zero Barnet by 2042. We encourage all eligible residents to take advantage of this free support and make a positive change for their homes and the environment."
The Green Doctor service offers free, tailored support to households that meet certain criteria, including people over 60, those with disabilities or health conditions worsened by the cold, and households with children under 10, those that are pregnant or have an annual income under £21,000. Services include:
- Free home energy visits: In-person or over the phone, tailored to your home and needs
- Energy-saving kits: Free energy-saving items such as LED light bulbs, draught-proofing materials, and radiator reflectors
- Personalised energy-saving advice: Tips on lowering bills, switching suppliers, and accessing financial support
- Energy efficiency guidance: Expert advice on home insulation, efficient heating, and renewable energy options
- Signposting to additional support: Connecting residents with government schemes and other local resources
Daniel Brittle, Green Doctor Service Manager at Groundwork London, said:
“Green Doctors are committed to supporting households across London with practical, accessible energy-saving advice. This partnership with Barnet Council allows us to extend our expertise to even more residents who are facing the challenge of rising energy costs. Whether it's through helping with utility bills or providing useful tools to reduce energy usage, we're here to empower Barnet’s residents to take control of their energy usage and make their homes more efficient."
B&M retailers, the campaign's sponsor, is proud to support this important initiative. A spokesperson for B&M said:
"We’re thrilled to sponsor this campaign, helping Barnet residents save money and reduce their energy bills during what is a particularly challenging time. At B&M, we believe in giving back to our communities, and this partnership allows us to support families in need and contribute to the borough’s sustainability goals."
Residents who make a referral by 28 February 2025 will be entered into a prize draw for a chance to win one of four £100 B&M gift vouchers.
The campaign follows Barnet’s Money Worries initiative, which includes an online financial calculator to help residents assess their income, expenses, and savings opportunities at https://www.barnet.gov.uk/benefits-grants-and-financial-advice. This tool supports families facing financial challenges by identifying potential savings on energy costs and helping them access available support.
Eligible residents can find out more on how to apply for the Green Doctor service at www.barnet.gov.uk/homefix.
Notes to Editors:
About Groundwork London
Groundwork London is a charity that works with communities across the capital to transform their lives and the places they live. We have been at the forefront of social and environmental regeneration in London for over 30 years, and today we have a simple mission: to create better places, improve people’s prospects, and promote greener living and working.
About Green Doctors
Green Doctor is a programme run by charity Groundwork London, that offers free and impartial energy advice to help residents stay warm in their home, save money on energy bills and live greener. The Green Doctor service is part of Groundwork London’s ongoing commitment to supporting communities and climate, tackling food and fuel poverty, and promoting sustainable living across the capital.