New Public Health Wales report highlights health risks of living in cold homes

Living in a home with temperatures below 18°C can have significant impacts on health and well-being, particularly for vulnerable groups, according to a new report from Public Health Wales and Bangor University.

The findings show a strong link between cold homes and negative health outcomes, with older residents, individuals with disabilities, and those with pre-existing health conditions at the highest risk.

The report highlights the importance of maintaining at least 18°C in commonly used living areas to safeguard health.

Dr Rebecca Hill, Senior Public Health Specialist for Public Health Wales, explained, “Our recommendations are based on the extensive evidence that home temperatures below 18°C can be harmful to health and wellbeing. We recognise that people who are older or have a health condition or disability are at particular risk of negative health and wellbeing outcomes in cold homes. However, the broader vulnerability to cold homes should be recognised; for example, low-income households and those who didn’t own their home were at increased risk of reporting the negative outcomes measured.

“As such, home heating guidelines should be updated over time as we learn more about how and which people are vulnerable to cold homes and how, with this important knowledge, we can seek to address any health inequalities that result.”

A household survey of over 2,000 Welsh residents found that:

• 10.7% of homes had thermostats set below 18°C.
• Renters were twice as likely as homeowners to live in colder homes.
• Individuals in cold homes were over twice as likely to avoid inviting guests due to difficulties keeping their homes warm.

The study also revealed that rising energy costs are forcing some households to make difficult choices.

Groups more likely to cut meal sizes or skip meals to afford heating included low-income households, people with disabilities, and younger individuals living alone or with children.

Dr Kat Ford, Research Fellow at Bangor University, noted, “Our household survey took place at a time when the costs of energy and other household essentials were starting to increase, but before the peak in energy bills. It is likely that this winter more people in Wales could struggle to adequately heat their homes. Therefore, it is important that members of the public can access information and advice on keeping healthy and safe at home in winter.”

Recommendations and Support

To mitigate risks, the report advises maintaining a minimum home temperature of 18°C, with older or vulnerable individuals potentially needing higher temperatures.

For those struggling with energy costs, there are resources available:

• Contact your energy supplier for potential assistance.
• Visit GOV.WALES for help with utility bills.
• Reach out to charities such as Citizens Advice (0800 702 2020) or National Energy Action (0800 304 7159) for advice and support.

Dr Hill concluded, “As such, home heating guidelines should be updated over time as we learn more about how and which people are vulnerable to cold homes and how, with this important knowledge, we can seek to address any health inequalities that result.”

This report is a timely reminder of the importance of warm homes for health, especially as energy costs continue to rise.