AQW 26414/22-27 Written question to the Minister for Communities

To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the definition of vulnerable, as used in his recent Fuel Poverty Strategy consultation.

Asked by Kellie Armstrong MLA on 30 April 2025

  • Answered
  • Written
  • After due date
Tabled
30 April 2025
Answer due by
16 May 2025
Answered
25 June 202556 days after tabling
Department
Department for Communities
Priority question
No

Answer

While the draft Fuel Poverty Strategy does not provide a precise definition of vulnerable, it refers to households with low incomes, a long-term health condition or illness exacerbated by cold and damp conditions in their home. These households are most at risk of fuel poverty and most likely to be negatively impacted by it. Good quality, warm, secure housing is vital to both mental and physical health.

Official sources