AS the temperatures start to plummet, many of us are stoking the fire or adjusting the thermostat to keep cosy. If your home is a country property, it might look biscuit-tin perfect but the reality is sometimes very different. Drafts, poor insulation and climbing fuel costs may be just some of the challenges rural dwellers are getting ready to grapple with this winter.

The Gamekeepers’ Welfare Trust (GWT) is urging anyone in (or who has been in) a gamekeeping profession who may be concerned about coping with fuel costs to get in touch. Helen MJ Benson, Chief Executive Officer, says ‘Rural dwellers, and especially those living on tight budgets for whatever reason, may feel the pinch of more than just the cold this winter. We’re encouraging all those who qualify for our support to contact us so we can talk about how we can keep them warm this winter. That’s people who are, or have spent significant time in their career as, gamekeepers, stalkers and ghillies. They might have moved on to another role, or be long-retired. We also work with the dependants of people in those roles, for example wives whose husbands may no longer be with us’. The Resources section of the GWT’s website has a range of free guidance, and from 27 November a new fact sheet on keeping warm will be available with tips on grants available, where to look for help, and more.

The GWT’s work with people in the gamekeeping professions and their dependants includes support, financial help in a range of circumstances, housing and employment. During the pandemic many households have seen a drop in income with furlough payments, or someone in the household’s hours or role being cut. Whatever has caused a financial challenge, the GWT is worth a call.

The message as the weather changes is simple: if you’re worried about keeping warm this winter, contact the GWT to talk about how they can help.