A family from Longton has won £600 worth of energy efficient appliances after competing in an energy saving challenge. 

Staffordshire Housing Association challenged their residents to go green for three months. Armed with energy saving devices, the families in Ruskin Close and Shenton Street, Longton, competed to see who could save the most energy. Winner of the competition, Lorna Proctor of Ruskin Close, used the £600 prize fund to pick out a new fridge freezer, cooker and a television for her daughters’ bedroom. 

The mum-of-four beat off competition from her neighbours to be the best energy saver. The 36-year-old said: “I never expected to win, especially as the children like their Playstations and televisions so much. I just thought that it would be a great way of saving some money. 

“The energy saving gadgets were simple to use and have really helped to cut down our fuel costs, on average I‘m spending about £2 or £3 less a week on my meter, which will add up to quite a saving over the year.”

Lorna’s children also embraced the challenge and helped by getting into the habit of switching off the television and light switches, when not in use. 

Emma Roberts, Regeneration Programme Manager at Staffordshire Housing Association, said: “The challenge has proved a great success in promoting energy awareness. Paying for energy is a big part of our tenants’ household budget so we are always exploring new ways that we can assist our tenants in saving money. 

“The gadgets used in the challenge were simple to use and have proved successful, so the next step is to look into getting them rolled out for use by our tenants.” 

ENDS

For media enquiries contact Sandra Barber at Staffordshire Housing Association on 01782 744533.

Notes to Editors:

Staffordshire Housing Group is committed to building a better future for local communities. The group’s parent organisation, Staffordshire Housing Association, has around 3,000 homes for rent and sale, including three older people’s villages, and offers a range of tenant services. Revival Home Improvement Agency works with older and vulnerable home owners to help them stay warm, secure and independent in well-maintained homes. Blue Mountain Housing Association works closely with refugees to provide essential support and help with access to healthcare, education, training and employment. Since April 2012, Hanley-based charity Arch has been part of the group. Arch provides accommodation and support services to people in need, including survivors of domestic violence, ex-offenders and young people leaving care.

For more information please visit www.staffshousing.org.uk