New Partnership Launches to Tackle Energy Inequality

A new initiative, Positively Connected Kent, has launched with a strong mission: “To ensure every person in Kent has the energy they need to live with dignity, comfort and opportunity – regardless of income, circumstance or postcode”.

Positively Connected Kent will focus on tackling energy inequality, and ensuring people can access the support they need quickly, fairly, and locally. At a time when many households continue to face rising living costs, the partnership is committed to making sure no one is forced to choose between heating and living essentials.

The collaboration brings together organisations across Kent and Medway, including Medway Voluntary Action, Social Enterprise Kent, Groundwork, and Involve, which is leading the partnership its initial phase.

By creating stronger links between services, the partnership aims to ensure that residents don’t fall through gaps in support and can more easily access the help they need. It will strengthen local networks, and build a more sustainable, long-term response to the challenges people face with rising energy costs. Alongside direct support, the partnership will also work to challenge unfair systems and campaign for lasting change that creates a fairer future for communities across Kent and Medway.

The partnership hopes to welcome additional organisations as the movement continues to grow.

Gary Well, CEO of Involve said: “By working together, we can create a fairer and more connected system of support for people across Kent and Medway. No single organisation can solve energy inequality alone, but together we believe we can make a real and lasting difference.”

People struggling with energy costs will be able to access:

• Face to face and telephone support
• Practical advice on reducing energy bills and improving home energy efficiency
• Help accessing grants, discounts and emergency support
• Guidance on smart meters, comparison tool and online services to better manage bills

Residents can contact their local delivery partner for personalised support:

Dartford, Gravesham, Swanley – Groundwork

Email: greendoctor@involvekent.org.uk

Phone: 0800 233 5255

Medway & Swale – Medway Voluntary Action

Email: energynavigator@mva.org.uk

01634 812 850

Maidstone, Sevenoaks, Tonbridge & Malling, Tunbridge Wells – Involve

Email: hello@involvekent.org.uk

Phone: 03000 810 005

Canterbury, Ashford, Dover, Folkestone & Hythe, Thanet – Social Enterprise Kent

Email: energy@sekgroup.org.uk

01843 210 005