Many households in rural Derbyshire rely on oil for heating and hot water. The Russian invasion of Ukraine has meant the cost oil has risen drastically.
In the last year alone, the average price of oil has skyrocketed, rising by an astonishing 60% between February 2021 and February 2022. But, since 24th February the cost of heating oil has gone up from about 61 pence per litre (ppl) to over 150ppl.
The minimum order quantity for heating oil is 500 litres which at today's prices is around £800! In March 2021 it was only £200. Households struggling to make ends meet just can’t afford it which therefore means no central heating.
Matlock-based Rural Action Derbyshire is asking for donations to its Oil Bank, which provides a delivery of heating oil for those who are struggling to make ends meet.
The Oil Bank relies solely on donations, and the charity is hoping to raise as much money as possible to deal with soaring demand.
Emma Simpson, manager of the Community Oil Buying scheme, said: “We started the Oil Bank in 2020, but it’s needed now more than ever. What we have in our oil bank would have helped 3 or 4 households last year but now it will just about help one. We really need to significantly boost funds. Without it some people will be left in the cold, literally.”
One beneficiary of the Oil Bank said: “During a very stressful and worrying time, the delivery of oil from the Oil Bank took away the difficult decision to choose between hot water and heating or food and essential personal products for my daughter and myself. I will be eternally grateful for this support.”
Those wanting to contribute to this vital fundraiser can do so by visiting ruralactionderbyshire.org.uk/appeal/oil-bank-appeal or by emailing e.simpson @ ruralactionderbyshire.org.uk.
