ALMOST 3,000 vulnerable people died across the South West during the winter months last year, prompting an action call from campaigners.

Shocking statistics released by the Office for National Statistics reveal that last winter 2,700 people across the region died because of effects relating to the cold.

Dorset Community Foundation (DCF) is therefore calling for more donations for its Surviving Winter Appeal to help save as many lives as possible as temperatures drop this winter.

The foundation aims to give something back to Dorset and help improve the lives of those in need. Many residents face disadvantages and live in areas which are amongst some of the poorest in the UK. Since launching the foundation has distributed more than £10 million to communities, organisations and individuals in need.

The foundation’s Surviving Winter Appeal has recently re-launched. People are asked to donated their unwanted fuel allowances which are then dispersed in the form of grants through the Citizens Advice Bureaus.

Last year the charity raised nearly £20,000 people helping around 200 local households.

A 73-year-old lady from Portland, who wanted to remain anonymous, was one of the people the charity supported. She has been worried about paying the bills ever since her husband passed away a couple of years ago, and has to rely on one pension. At the time she had an undiagnosed health condition that affected her ability to walk and it was essential for her to keep warm. A grant from the appeal ensured her bills was something she didn’t have to worry about.

Jon Yates, chief executive at the foundation said: “The regional stats are very shocking. Older people in Dorset are particularly vulnerable – we have the largest older people population in the UK and our county is also very rural. Those who live in shire Dorset struggle to get to support services and extra help.”

To donate to the Surviving Winter Appeal and help an older person in Dorset send a cheque to Dorset Community Foundation Surviving Winter Appeal, The Spire, High Street, Poole, BH15 1DF. Alternatively, visit dorsetcommunityfoundation.org or call 01202 670815.