The Warmth and Wellbeing pilot scheme aims to objectively measure and validate the health and wellbeing impacts of improving the living conditions of vulnerable people living in energy poverty with chronic respiratory conditions. The scheme is a collaboration between my Department and the Department of Health and was jointly administered by the Health Service Executive and the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland. Since 2016, almost 1,500 homes have received free upgrades to their homes, including attic and wall insulation, window and door replacement and heating system upgrades where needed.
The London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) were engaged to carry out, in collaboration with the HSE, an independent analysis of the health impacts of improved energy efficiency among the participants in the research element of this scheme. The LSHTM has been working closely with the research committee for the project, which consists of officials from my Department, the HSE, the Department of Health and the SEAI since then. A draft final report has been submitted to the Department and is now subject to final reviews and comments for the project team. I will be publishing the report in full shortly when it is finalised.
The report shows positive results for the participants as a result of the energy efficiency upgrades carried out in their homes. These included:
- warmer, more comfortable homes, with heating systems that are easier to control;
- improved physical health including reduced pain;
- improved mental health and wellbeing including reduced feelings of anxiety and depression;
- reduced visits to GP and A&E and fewer incidences requiring hospitalisation;
- reduced prescription drug usage for their respiratory conditions;
- being more comfortable inviting other to their homes.
