South Hams District Council is continuing its work to make sure residents have safe, good quality homes that support health and wellbeing.

As discussed at their Executive Meeting today (23 October), the Council earlier this year completed the Home Upgrade Grant programme, which helped improve 46 properties across the District with new heating and energy-saving upgrades. Residents are already seeing the benefits, from warmer rooms and reduced damp to lower energy bills.

One South Hams resident said: "Definitely much warmer throughout at a constant temperature. There are no cold spots or draughts as before, no mildew or damp anywhere… my whole house is comfortable and keeps to the set temperature from the thermostat."

Another added: "My home temperature is now more stable… all areas of my home feel comfortable. My energy consumption has slightly reduced, and I am more confident that I can manage my energy use now."

Building on this success, the Council has now launched the Warmer Homes: Local Grant – a three-year Government funded scheme worth over £1.6 million. This programme could help improve up to 80 more homes across South Hams, tackling cold, damp and poor energy efficiency.

The scheme is aimed at households who are on a low income, living in homes that are hard to heat, or struggling with issues like damp and poor insulation. Eligible residents will be supported through the process from start to finish.

Working closely with community partners such as South Dartmoor Community Energy, the Council will identify and support eligible households to make sure every pound of funding makes a real difference to local families.

Nicky Puttick, Project Manager at South Dartmoor Community Energy said: “We’re delighted to continue working with South Hams District Council to make sure this funding reaches the households who need it most.

“Our team of local advisors see first-hand what a difference a warm, dry home makes to people’s day-to-day lives. With this new funding, we can help even more South Hams households feel comfortable, save money on their bills, and enjoy homes that are healthy and ready for the future.”

Cllr Denise O’Callaghan, Executive Member for Housing, at South Hams District Council, said: "A warm, safe and good quality home is essential for health and wellbeing.

“We’re committed to tackling poor housing conditions and ensuring residents can live comfortably and sustainably in the South Hams."

New eligible households will be invited to take part in the scheme from early 2026.