THIS week sees the start of the Warm Homes Campaign, the annual winter campaign organised by energy efficiency charity National Energy Action in association with Powergen, part of E.ON UK.

The Warm Homes Campaign aims to highlight the fact that 223,000 households in Wales - mostly vulnerable groups like the elderly, families with young children and people with disabilities or chronic illnesses - cannot afford to heat their homes to adequate levels.

For them winter brings poor health, anxiety, debt and isolation.

Excess winter deaths in the UK are among the highest in Northern Europe.

Last winter there were 1,900 excess winter deaths in Wales.

Higher fuel prices and the prediction of the coldest winter for eight years could push this year's figure much higher.

But there is help available this winter.

Energy efficiency measures can reduce fuel bills and make homes warmer and more comfortable.

There are grant schemes available to help with the cost of energy saving measures and many people are entitled to receive measures for free.

During the campaign, we would urge anyone who is worried about heating their home this winter to call the Keep Warm Keep Well helpline on 0800 085 7000 for information and advice on keeping warm in winter, how to claim benefits and to find out about energy efficiency grants.

Don't become a statistic this winter.

STEVE CRANSTON, Director National Energy Action Wales

GARRY WORTHINGTON, Social Affairs Manager at E.ON UK