Weymouth residents are being encouraged to seek advice on how to afford staying warm this winter.

Energy advisers from Citizens Advice will be on hand to give free tips to local residents at the Nautico Lounge on St Thomas Street.

The event is part of Fuel Poverty Awareness Day on Thursday, November 30, from 9.30am to 12pm.

Advisers will be there to help people who may be struggling with their energy costs, want energy saving advice, or to check to see if they are eligible for grants or financial support.

READ: Energy bills forecast to rise for millions of families from start of January

There will also be free winter warmer giveaways, and the Dorset Energy Unit will be offering free energy advice training to frontline workers who work with people who are facing difficulty heating their homes.

Ros Dignan, project coordinator, Dorset Energy Unit, said: “As we approach the winter months, people are having to make really difficult decisions between switching their heating on or buying food.

“We want people to know that there is help available. Come and have a chat with our friendly advisers in confidence, no appointment is necessary.

“We are supported at these events by the local Citizens Advice offices, Ridgewater Energy from Local Energy Advice Partnership and Healthy Homes Dorset.”

READ: Dorset Community Fund launch Surviving Winter appeal

The online training course will provide simple energy saving tips and advice about available grants.

Ros added: “There are lots of people who would find this training really useful. It provides an overview of how to help vulnerable people with their energy costs and what financial support packages are available and how to apply.”

Another event in Poole will also be held at Delfino Lounge, Falkland Square, on the same day, again from 9.30am to 12pm.

To register on the Energy Advice Training courses visit www.edpcitizensadvice.org.uk. Alternatively, email: energy@edpcitizensadvice.org.uk for more information.

The Citizens Advice Energy Unit can be contacted on 01929 775500 where you will be asked to leave a message and an adviser will return your call. Alternatively, email: energy@edpcitizensadvice.org.uk.

For general advice and support call the Dorset Adviceline on our freephone line 0800 144 8848 (Textphone: 0800 144 8884), 10am-4pm weekdays or visit www.edpcitizensadvice.org.uk