Free central heating systems are on offer across the Tees Valley - here's all you need to know

For more than 1,000 households across the Tees Valley, this could be about to change.

It's all thanks to a multi-million pound project, led by Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council.

The Tees Valley Warm Homes Fund has secured £6.1 million funding to offer home improvements including an efficient new gas boiler and radiators.

This is from a national fund which has been established by National Grid and is administered by Affordable Warmth Solutions.

How do I qualify?

To qualify for the improvements, which includes an efficient new gas boiler, radiators, heating controls and all necessary pipework, residents must meet the following criteria:

• The property must not currently have central heating installed i.e. it does not have a heat generator connected to radiators.
• You must live in one of the Tees Valley local authority areas (Stockton-on-Tees, Darlington, Hartlepool, Middlesbrough, or Redcar & Cleveland).
• You must either own the property or have the permission of the owner.

You must have someone living there either:

• in receipt of the Government's qualifying benefits

OR

• have a low household income and high energy bills

OR

• have a low household income and a resident who is vulnerable to the effects of the cold

All of these requirements will be checked as part of the application process.

What happens if I think I qualify?

You can call us on 01642 526 100 to check your eligibility.

How long is the scheme running?

The scheme is operating on a first-come, first-served basis.

Applications will close once all the funds have been allocated.

What do Councillors think?

Deputy Leader of Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council, Councillor Jim Beall, said: "This is a brilliant opportunity for anyone in the area who meets the criteria - we are aiming to reach 1,200 homes in the area.

"I would urge you to check if you're eligible as soon as possible to avoid missing out. Remember, this is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

"Winter is just around the corner and having a warm home will make a massive difference for everyone's health and wellbeing. The Warm Homes Fund gives us a cost-effective way to make sure more families have the heat they need.

"The funding has been welcomed with open arms."