Grants of up to £200 are being dispersed on behalf of the charity through the Citizens Advice Network and The Centre for Sustainable Energy. Because of the freezing temperatures and the phenomenal £70,000 the charity has raised this year; the support deadline is being extended until mid-April.

Jon Yates, Chief Executive at the Foundation explained: ‘We have already dispersed £40,000 in funding this winter helping 200 households. With the freezing temperatures many local older people will be struggling to heat their homes and we are calling on those who are having to choose between heating or eating to get in touch as help is available.’

The Appeal, which normally supports people over 65 in fuel poverty, is also extending support to those 50 and over who meet the winter fuel poverty criteria, have significant health conditions, are on the highest level of benefits and have little current chance of improving life circumstances.

Every year Dorset Community Foundation runs the Surviving Winter Appeal calling on donations from unwanted winter fuel allowances and general support from charitable trusts and companies.

The Appeal initially started in 2010 because of shockingly high winter mortality in Dorset – on average 520 vulnerable people die from cold weather related deaths in Dorset every year.

To receive help please contact Citizens Advice on 01929 775500 or The Centre for Sustainable Energy on 0300 003 7023.