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New winter heating guidance has been issued in response to growing concern households in West Sussex are putting their health at risk by lowering the thermostat in an effort to save money on their energy bills during the cost of living crisis.

A new survey by consumer group Which? found nearly half (46 per cent) of UK households did not turn their heating on when it was cold last winter. Nearly nine in ten also revealed they are trying to cut back on their energy usage again this year.

The survey also found that four in ten (41 per cent) households are reducing how much they use the oven whilst a third (33%) are having fewer baths or reducing the length of showers in an effort to lower their energy usage.

In response OFTEC, which runs a registration scheme for off-grid heating technicians, has issued a winter checklist to help households in West Sussex reduce their energy costs without resorting to turning down the temperature. The advice includes:

Winter guidance issued as survey reveals nine in 10 households are trying to cut back on their energy usage this year Picture: Which?

Concern for households in West Sussex cutting back on essential heating needs this winter