Energy Poverty in Children’s Palliative Care 

Recognising and Responding to Energy Poverty in Children’s Palliative Care

Families caring for a seriously ill child face more than medical challenges.

For many, soaring energy bills and rising living costs create a hidden crisis, energy poverty, that puts their child’s comfort, safety, and health at risk.

Why this matters 

Children with life-limiting or life-threatening conditions can be more vulnerable to cold, damp homes and cuts in the power supply. Many rely on medical equipment that increases household energy use. For these families, energy poverty isn’t just uncomfortable, it can threaten health and wellbeing.

Your role as a professional 

You are often the first to notice when a family is struggling. Recognising the signs, such as a cold home, signs of condensation or mould, discussions about cutting back on heating, or reluctance to use energy-intensive medical equipment, can make all the difference.

• This Together We Learn Pod-Chat gives you:
• Clear warning signs to look for in your daily work
• Simple, Practical tips you can share to help reduce costs and improve energy efficiency
• Encouraging awareness of using carbon monoxide alarms
• Understanding and registering for the Priority Services Register
• Signposting to expert help

We created the pod-chat below so that you can listen while you are on the move or while completing other work. Click below to start listening.