HUNDREDS of people are being forced to live in homes that are too cold this winter.

That’s the message from a charity which has launched a campaign to help those who are struggling.

Turn2us is raising concerns that many people in the county are living in cold homes because they struggle to pay their energy bills, with many unaware of the help that is available.

Despite 86,720 households in Dorset receiving the Winter Fuel Payment to help with the energy costs last winter, the charity says that many will cut back on heating their home this winter because they are struggling financially.

The charity says that it is crucial that those in Dorset who are concerned about their fuel bills receive the support that they are eligible for.

Research by Turn2us found that more than half of those surveyed were not aware that many energy suppliers offer support towards winter energy bills to certain customers, such as those on low incomes.

Similarly, two-thirds were not aware that some energy suppliers have charitable trusts to help certain customers who are struggling with their energy bills.

Simon Hopkins, chief executive of Turn2us, said the elderly and disabled were the hardest hit when it came to keeping their homes warm and safe.

He added: “Our research lays bare the extent to which people are needlessly suffering in cold homes this winter.

"Over half of people who have come to Turn2us looking for support, people who by definition are already taking that first difficult step and looking for help, do not have any awareness of the support that they can get towards fuel bills.

“What’s even more concerning is that it is older people and those living with a disability that will be hardest hit.

“Having had a record breaking cold November, it is absolutely imperative that people are made aware that help is available.

“That is why we are urging people to check with relatives and neighbours, especially those who are older or living with a disability, so that we can tackle this situation head on.”

You can find out more about the No Cold Homes campaign at turn2us.org.uk/About-Us/Our-campaigns/No-Cold-Homes.