A project to tackle fuel poverty and isolation among young people in Bolton has been launched.

Local gas network Cadent is investing £300,000 to both fund the new ‘Safe and Well Communities’ project and provide experts to train the YMCA team.

Housing workers who support young people at YMCA Bolton will be trained to provide practical advice on energy efficiency, financial management and safety during the transition from YMCA-supported housing to independent living.

Among the YMCA centres confirmed as part of this new partnership is YMCA Bolton.

Denise Hatton, Chief Executive of YMCA England & Wales, said: "We are incredibly excited about this partnership with Cadent.

“By combining our expertise and resources, we have a unique opportunity to make a profound difference in the lives of those affected by the insecurity of relentlessly rising prices.

“Young people are facing a significantly challenging financial landscape as they struggle through the cost-of-living crisis.

“With outgoings outpacing income, many are finding it increasingly difficult to achieve financial stability and plan for their future.

“Together with Cadent, we can empower individuals and build stronger, healthier communities."

Philip Burrows, Head of Customer Vulnerability Social Programme Delivery at Cadent, added: “As a brand, YMCA remains one of the most trusted and iconic in the country, particularly within the younger demographic.

“Therefore, this new partnership will be an important part of our strategy in targeting important energy and financial awareness support where it is needed the most.

“Sadly, no-one has escaped the impact of the past few years, but when it comes to people in vulnerable situations, they have been the ones to take the brunt – so any additional help must be carefully targeted and delivered to ensure it will have the maximum impact.”

Fuel poverty remains a persistent issue affecting millions of people across the UK, particularly those on low incomes.

YMCA and Cadent will work together to address this challenge head-on, making a meaningful impact on the lives of those most affected.

In addition, YMCA will conduct slow cooking workshops for more than 5,000 young people, using slow cookers provided by Cadent.

This initiative promotes healthy eating on a budget and will occur in youth centres and housing facilities.

YMCA is the largest provider of supported housing, with more than 9,000 beds offered each night.

If you have a story or something you would like to highlight in the community, please email me at chloe.wilson@newsquest.co.uk or DM me on Twitter @chloewjourno.