Retrofit for Health: The Fuel Poor Can’t Be Left Behind
01/09/2025
In this episode, Jenny Danson, Co-Founder and Chief Executive of Healthy Homes Hub, speaks with Adam Scorer, Chief Executive of National Energy Action (NEA), about why fuel poverty must be seen as more than an energy issue—it’s a public health emergency. Over six million UK households still can’t afford to heat their homes, with devastating impacts on health, wellbeing, and life chances.
Adam shares why fuel poverty is “everybody’s second issue” and calls for a systemic approach that links health, housing, welfare, and clean energy policy. He reminds us: “There is no path to net zero that doesn’t pass through the homes of the poor.”
Key themes include:
Why retrofits must be measured in health and wellbeing outcomes, not just installations.
The critical role of social housing as the testing ground for solutions.
How resident engagement and lived experience shape real success.
The risks of treating fuel poverty as a one-off “crisis” rather than a long-term injustice.
Why fuel poverty must be treated as a cross-government mission.
Useful link: National Energy Action (NEA)
Practical steps for housing providers
Conduct resident audits alongside asset audits to understand lived experience and guide investment.
Embed health metrics into retrofit and net zero programmes—measure wellbeing, not just energy savings.
Prioritise ‘worst first’: identify households struggling most, not just the worst-performing homes.
Strengthen resident engagement, ensuring tenants see and feel the benefits of new technologies.
Collaborate across sectors—health, welfare, and housing must work together to address fuel poverty.
What Are the Benefits of Being a Member of the Healthy Homes Hub?
Industry Recognition and Networking:
Connect with a thriving network of over 350 housing organisations, including decision-makers, innovators, and leaders. Build partnerships that enhance your professional growth and create lasting business opportunities.
Showcase Your Expertise:
Demonstrate your impact by participating in exclusive case studies, webinars, and events. Highlight your contributions to creating healthier, sustainable homes, reaching a broad audience across the sector.
Influence Policy and Advocacy:
Be part of shaping housing policy through direct engagement with policymakers and advocacy efforts. Stay at the forefront of discussions driving meaningful change in the housing sector.
Access to Market Insights:
Gain access to Healthy Homes Hub’s regular newsletters, expert analysis, and resources. Stay informed about trends, regulations, and innovative practices that affect housing professionals.
Specialised Events and Workshops:
Take part in events like the Immersive Study Tours, offering hands-on learning and networking opportunities. Visit groundbreaking projects and facilities to explore real-world solutions for healthier and more sustainable homes.
Exclusive Tools and Resources:
Only members can upgrade to Housing Sage, a cutting-edge AI assistant tailored to social housing professionals. Benefit from personalised insights, regulatory guidance, and innovative ideas to enhance your operations.
Collaboration Opportunities:
Contribute to Healthy Homes Hub’s mission by sharing best practices, participating in action learning programmes like the Retrofit Society, or co-developing solutions with academic and industry leaders.
