Alliance Communities spokesperson Kellie Armstrong MLA has called on the Minister for Communities to urgently introduce the draft Fuel Poverty Strategy, warning that the lack of a government strategy is "harming the health and welfare of our communities."

The Strangford MLA cited a briefing from the National Energy Action (NEA) NI which confirmed that people living in social homes and private rentals are particularly vulnerable to fuel poverty due to the poor condition of housing and limited opportunities for fuel efficiency upgrades.

Ms. Armstrong highlighted severe impacts of fuel poverty on health and well-being, noting the NEA report found that many people are simply "too scared to turn on the heat." Key findings cited included:

Affordability: Over a quarter (27% of households) reported going without heating or electricity at some point during the last 24 months because they could not afford the energy costs.

Health Deterioration: Research confirms that over half of pensioners, people with disabilities, and those in social or private rented accommodation who live in fuel poverty have experienced worse mental health, increased visits to GPs, and suffered increased deterioration in pre-existing medical conditions.

Ms. Armstrong is now calling for a definitive, target-driven strategy to be brought forward in time for consideration in the upcoming Budget, arguing this is essential to ensure cross-departmental resources are invested to eradicate fuel poverty.

"Our communities are suffering and it’s time for the Minister... to take real action and start delivering on the issues that matter most."