Vulnerable older people are set for vital assistance through the coming winter months thanks to a new campaign being launched by the South Yorkshire Community Foundation.

Through the Surviving Winter Appeal, which launches next month, those who can afford to are being encouraged to donate their Winter Fuel Payment to benefit those living in fuel poverty in South Yorkshire.

On average between 2002-2009 almost 700 people over the age of 65 died EVERY WINTER in South Yorkshire, the majority from largely preventable causes related to the cold conditions.

The campaign is also running nationally with several high profile supporters already firmly backing the cause including Sir David Jason, Sir Terry Wogan and Denise Robertson of ITV's This Morning.

All monies donated will go straight into the Surviving Winter Fund from which grants will be made to support individuals who will struggle to cope with the cold this winter.

Endorsing the campaign, Sir David Jason said: "Staying warm and healthy in our cold winters is something most of us take for granted.

"However, when the idea of those more fortunate "handing on" their winter fuel payments to local, vulnerable people was presented, I wanted to pledge my payment to the "Surviving Winter Appeal.

"It would be great to think that all those people who are in a position to forego part or all of their own winter fuel payment could join this great scheme and spread a little warmth".

The Winter Fuel Payment is a tax free payment made by the Government during November and December to people over the age of 60, to help them keep warm during the winter.

Nationally 33% of pensioners are believed to be living in fuel poverty and it is hoped that the Surviving Winter Fund will provide for those in need over the coming months.

The campaign was inspired by individuals who wanted to donate their Winter Fuel Payment to support older and vulnerable people who are less fortunate than themselves.

Pauline Grice, chief executive of SYCF, said: "Surviving Winter aims to encourage people to support those in need for whom the Winter Fuel Payment is not nearly enough.

"It is vitally important to provide a channel for those who want to help the most vulnerable members of our community to get through the winter with dignity.

"We hope others will see what is being done and also wish to lend their support."

The campaign will launch in earnest on November 10 at a national launch at the House of Commons, with further information and case studies appearing in local media that week.

How to donate

Those interested in the campaign will be able to donate by simply sending us a cheque (with completed Gift Aid form) or through an Online Giving option. More information will be available nearer to the launch date and through a special Surviving Winter e-newsletter.

To find out more about the Surviving Winter Appeal, call 0114 2424857.