New report exposes scale and human cost of fuel poverty in Somerset
A new report published by Thrive reveals that one in ten people in Somerset are living in fuel poverty, with thousands forced to make the impossible choice between heating and eating.
The report – Cold homes, tough choices: Fuel Poverty in Somerset – is the first in a series of briefing papers by Thrive exploring the everyday realities facing Somerset’s communities. Drawing on national statistics, local data from Citizens Advice Somerset, and first-hand stories from residents, it highlights the stark inequalities faced by those unable to heat their homes efficiently or affordably.
The report was launched on Wednesday 22 October at the first Somerset Fuel Poverty & Energy Efficiency Forum, hosted by Thrive, at Somerset Sight in Taunton. The event brought together partners from across the voluntary, statutory and business sectors, alongside national charity National Energy Action (NEA) and Burnham & Weston Energy, to discuss practical ways to reduce fuel poverty and improve energy efficiency across the county.
Among its key findings, the report reveals that:
- Around 58,800 Somerset residents are living in fuel poverty – roughly one in ten people.
- Very rural parts of Somerset such as Williton, Dulverton and Exmoor experience the highest levels of fuel poverty, reaching up to 16% of households.
- Nine per cent of Thrive’s Village Agent referrals in 2024 were directly related to fuel poverty.
- Three-quarters of people seeking help with fuel debt from Citizens Advice Somerset were disabled or had long-term health conditions.
The report also exposes the knock-on effects of cold, damp homes on people’s physical and mental health – from respiratory illness and heart disease to anxiety, depression and social isolation – and highlights the disproportionate impact on families with children, pensioners, and disabled residents.
No one in Somerset should have to choose between heating and eating.
Val Bishop, Chief Executive of Thrive
“Behind every statistic is a story,” said Val Bishop, Chief Executive of Thrive. “In Somerset, that means almost 60,000 people living in homes they can’t afford to keep warm. This is not just a problem of cold houses – it’s a problem of poor health, social inequality, and missed opportunity. Through this report, we want to shine a light on what’s really happening in our communities, amplify the voices of those affected, and work with partners to find practical, lasting solutions. ”
Thrive’s report calls for coordinated local and national action, including:
- A shared Somerset-wide policy to ensure all social housing has adequate flooring and insulation.
- Greater engagement with private landlords on improving energy efficiency.
- A social energy tariff and national support scheme to help indebted households clear energy debts.
- Investment in home insulation and affordable renewable energy to reduce both bills and carbon emissions.
“Tackling fuel poverty is not just a matter of compassion,” added Val Bishop. “It’s about fairness and building a healthier, more sustainable future for Somerset.”
The Somerset Fuel Poverty & Energy Efficiency Forum will explore what more can be done collaboratively to identify gaps, share good practice, and create a more joined-up response to this growing challenge.