Who are Energy Advice Cafés for?
As the cost of living rises, managing energy use is crucial. Many households struggle with energy bills, and we’re here to help. Our Energy Advice Cafés offer tips on making your home more energy-efficient and saving money.
Everyone is welcome to drop into our free Cafés for practical advice, follow-up support, financial aid info, and cost-cutting workshops.
Each session lasts 1 - 2 hours. Just bring your recent energy bills and usage info, and feel free to bring friends or family who could benefit!

Where are the Cafés?
Come along and enjoy a complimentary hot drink while chatting about your energy options. We can give you information leaflets to take away and read, and supply free carbon monoxide monitors for certain people.
Aberford Community Centre

Day and time:
Wednesdays from 12 noon - 4pm.
Location:
Aberford Community Centre, Aberford Road, Borehamwood, WD6 1PL.
Bushey Library
Farriers Way Community Centre

Day and time:
Thursdays from 10am - 2pm.
Location:
Farriers Way Community Centre, 27 Farriers Way, Borehamwood, WD6 2TB.
Organ Hall Community Centre

Day and time:
Fridays from 10am - 2pm.
Location:
Phillimore Community Centre

Day and time:
Tuesdays from 12 noon - 4pm.
Location:
Phillimore Community Centre, Phillimore Place, Radlett, WD7 8NN.
Windsor Hall

Day and time:
Mondays from 10.30am - 12.30pm.
Location:
Windsor Hall, Blyth Close, Gateshead Road, Borehamwood, WD6 4EE.
Your Community Hub

Day and time:
Mondays - Thursdays from 9am - 3.45pm and Fridays from 9am - 1pm.
Location:
What if I cannot get to a Café?
If you cannot join us at our Energy Advice Cafés, don't fret! We can help you over the phone or email. Contact us on 01727 649930 or help@communities1st.org.uk.
Our telephone lines are open on Mondays - Fridays, 9am - 4:30pm.
Carbon Monoxide Awareness
Carbon monoxide is a poisonous gas which is colourless, odourless and tasteless. Your home is at risk of carbon monoxide leaks from poorly fitted or maintained gas appliances and blocked chimneys or vents. It can also be produced by BBQs, wood burners and generators.
If you think a gas appliance is leaking carbon monoxide, call the free National Gas Helpline now on 0800 111 999.
To minimise the risks of carbon monoxide poisoning, you should ensure all gas appliances are properly installed and annually serviced by a Gas Safe Registered engineer, ensure chimneys and flues are cleaned annually to prevent blockages, and install carbon monoxide alarms within your home and test them regularly.
If eligible, you can pick up a carbon monoxide monitor for free at our Energy Advice Cafés in Hertsmere!

FREE Carbon Monoxide Workshop
This is an information and advice session led by the Gas Safety Charity.
Date | Time | Register |
Monday 3 March | 11am - 12pm | Event passed |
Wednesday 11 June | 11am - 12pm | Book here |
Wednesday 17 September | 11am - 12pm | Book here |
Friday 21 November | 11am - 12pm | Event not yet bookable |
Gas safety for those with restricted mobility
Would you, or someone you care for find it difficult to turn off your Emergency Control Valve (ECV) in the event of a gas emergency?
If you would struggle to hold and turn a traditional ECV handle, the EasyAssist™ will help you. It is designed to be activated at the push of a button isolating the gas supply while you wait for the Gas Emergency Service to attend.
It has an additional safety feature so, in the event of a domestic house fire (temperatures exceeding 100c), the EasyAssist™ will automatically activate and shut off the gas supply.
Learn more about the EasyAssist™ by clicking the button below.

Online energy advice resources
Cadent's energy saving tips for your home
We all want to save money on energy bills while staying safe and well, and one of the easiest ways to reduce costs is by making small, simple changes which can add up to real annual savings.