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A free course to help local residents save money and improve the environment is currently being held and there are now plans to deliver the course throughout North Devon through local community groups.
The interactive session run by Healthier Homes North Devon explores different ways that people can reduce their bills and includes information on how to get the best mobile phone deals and how to use price comparison websites to find the best value for money.
It also helps people to understand financial terms such as ‘APR’ which is important when looking at different savings or loan options. Some young people have used the course to find out how to open a bank account and have put these skills in to practice in their daily lives.
However the course is not only about saving money, but also reducing energy usage and improving the environment. People will learn how to calculate their carbon footprint, explore cheaper fuel suppliers and discover how to make their home more energy efficient. Information on how to apply for Home Improvement Grants through Healthier Homes North Devon in association with North Devon District Council will also be available.
Ninety year nine pupils from North Devon College have already completed the course, along with pupils on the Active Citizenship programme and Young Advisors from Ilfracombe’s neighbourhood management programme, Transform.
Course tutor, Marie Fraser from Healthier Homes North Devon says: “The course has been very successful to date with all ages in the community and we’re really pleased. The varied content means there’s something for everyone. This combined with the fact it’s very interactive, flexible and constructive makes it informative as well as fun.”
Lindsey Child, Transform Youth Community Worker says: “It’s a very realistic opportunity for these young people to learn about finances and how to save money. It’s difficult for them to comprehend what it’s going to be like when they leave school and this course is a really good introduction to making informed decisions about their spending and saving habits, as well as what to be aware of when they are ready to rent or buy a home.”
Cllr Andrea Davis, North Devon District Council Lead Member for Housing says: “I’d like to encourage residents to contact Healthier Homes North Devon to take part in these free courses and find out new ways to make their home more energy efficient and save money at the same time.”
Courses are open to individuals or community groups to attend. For further information on future sessions or to register interest in the course, please contact Marie Fraser at Healthier Homes North Devon on 01271 879490 or email marie@wcea.org.uk
For more information contact:
Marie Fraser
West Country Energy Action
01271 879490
marie@wcea.org.uk
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