Simon Francis, coordinator of the End Fuel Poverty Coalition, said: “For millions of households the extreme heat we’re experiencing is not just uncomfortable, it can be a serious health risk.
“For older people or those with pre-existing health conditions and living in low-energy-efficiency housing, extreme hot weather can be as dangerous as a cold snap in winter.
“There are around 4.5 million adults who have been made unwell by overheating in their homes and they are not people who can simply open a window or switch on the air conditioning.
“Typically these households will also be on low incomes, in poorly ventilated homes, often repaying energy debts or on prepayment meters, with no affordable way to keep cool.
“The Climate Change Committee recently warned that 92% of existing homes could overheat in more extreme heat events, and that the poorest neighbourhoods are seven times more likely to be vulnerable.
“We need coordinated action to upgrade homes for all seasons, not just winter. That means proper insulation, ventilation and passive cooling upgrades, alongside electricity pricing reform to bring down the cost of running fans and other equipment.
“With energy bills set to rise again in July, households cannot be left to face more extreme summer conditions without support.”
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