Ashford Borough Council Energy Advice Officer crowned at National Energy Action Conference

Ashford Borough Council (ABC) is delighted to announce that Coral Allon, our Energy Advice Officer, has been the recipient of the National Award for Positive Impacts on Health at the recent National Energy Action (NEA) Conference.

Coral leads on ABC’s Warm Homes Healthy Futures (WHHF) project, which is funded by the NEA and sits within the Climate and Energy team at the council.

WHHF specifically seeks referrals from health professionals, such as GPs and asthma groups, where she can then triage calls and support either over the phone or with a home visit.

As such, she’s been able to improve the warmth and comfort of their homes, save money on their energy bills and in some cases, reduce their energy debts.

The National Award for Positive Impacts on Health merits those who ‘make a life-changing difference to people with physical and mental health conditions.’

Since starting in the role of Energy Advice Officer in March 2025, Coral has already had a significant impact on many lives. By recognising the linkages between fuel poverty and poor health, she has been able to help people with health issues acerbated by cold and damp.

In addition, Coral has been training colleagues on fuel poverty, while also ensuring her clients are aware of additional support if needed, such as access to grants and benefits.

By taking a proactive approach and leveraging data from our Local Area Energy Plan (LAEP), Coral has identified areas that need help and subsequently promoted the referral pathways to health professionals within these zones – so we can access those likely to be most in need.

Within just six months, Coral’s approach saw 141 residents successfully triaged, while another 114 were supported in person.

“Fuel poverty affects people’s lives in deeply personal ways and it’s important to help those who are struggling,” Coral said. “Through our Warm Homes Healthy Futures project, we’re doing everything we can do help residents feel warmer, safer and more supported in their homes.

“I’m truly honoured that our work at Ashford Borough Council has been recognised by NEA. It means so much to know that our efforts are making a real difference and it’s reassuring to see we’re on the right path in supporting those who need us most.”

Commendation in the Municipal Journal Awards

As well as gaining recognition by the NEA, Coral’s work with WHHF was also highlighted for the Municipal Journal Awards, where it received a Commendation for the Innovation in Reducing Health Inequalities award.

The Municipal Journal Awards, otherwise known as the MJ Awards, are designed to celebrate excellence in local government and acknowledges the tremendous effort of those dedicating themselves to supporting local communities.