Fuel poverty advisors working for a Yorkshire charity have undertaken intensive training to qualify as Domestic Energy Assessors (DEA) to allow them to provide free Energy Performance Certificates (EPC) to those in need.

Four advisors from North Yorkshire Citizens Advice and Law Centre participated in the training after identifying that many clients were unable to afford the cost of such certificates. In turn, it meant that they didn’t necessarily know how their property could be improved or what grants were available to them to support with the cost of improvements.

The training involved three days of classroom work with an experienced trainer before the advisors had to complete two paper-based assessments and three test EPC assessments.

It is hoped that with the new skills, the team will be able to support around a hundred clients each year with this new service.

One of the advisors to take the training was Martin Wright. He said the experience has broadened his skillset and could make a big difference to supporting clients.

He said: “The knowledge I have gained from being a DEA has helped me to provide more detailed and more targeted advice through a deeper understanding of the client’s energy needs.

“I can now confidently explain what an EPC is, how it may benefit clients and support them in getting grants to keep their home warmer, as well as bringing down their energy bills.”

Once the EPC assessments have been carried out, the team can then work with the client to discuss options available to them and signpost them to funding opportunities and further assistance where necessary.

Since the training, Martin has been able to help Mr K*, an elderly client living in a large period property. Following Mr K’s EPC assessment, Martin was able to highlight insulation and heating measures that could improve the efficiency of the house, and referred him onto a partner organisation for funding.

Through further appointments, Martin also identified that Mr K had energy debt, and supported him to get it written off through a charitable grant.

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To find what energy debt grants are available from the Trust, please click here.