Local MP Katy Clark is urging people worried about their energy bills or about keeping warm enough this winter to get in touch with Energy Action Scotland, the charity working for warm, dry homes.
She said, “With such high gas and electricity prices many people are genuinely worried about the cost of their energy bills and it is important to remember that each household can make changes that will make their home more energy efficient and bring down the cost of their bills.”
In its winter warmth campaign, Energy Action Scotland is encouraging homes throughout Scotland to be more energy efficient, to check that they are getting the help they are entitled too, and to shop around and get the best deal from energy suppliers.
Katy said, “The Citizens Advice Bureau can give guidance to anyone who has a query over their entitlement to benefits or tax credits which may give them some additional financial help. Furthermore, it is also important to remember the things that we can do at home. There are easy and inexpensive ways to save energy through things like draft proofing and using appliances in more economical ways, and there are numerous agencies that can offer help and advice such as Energy Saving Scotland which can be contacted freephone on 0800 512 012.”
Norman Kerr, Director, Energy Action Scotland says: “Following these 3 areas of advice can help reduce the amount of energy you need to use at home and help towards paying your energy bills.”
Additionally, HomeHeat Helpline is aimed at helping vulnerable people get support and advice on what help is available to them. This includes older people, families with young children, and people with disabilities or long term health conditions. HomeHeat can be contacted freephone on 0800 33 66 99 or alternatively visit their website at www.homeheathelpline.org.
The local MP continued, “In North Ayrshire and Arran many people may be entitled to extra support or help. The HomeHeat Helpline is an organization specifically set up to help vulnerable groups during the coldest months of the year. I recommend anyone worried about keeping themselves, a friend or relative warm this winter to get in touch with them on 0800 33 66 99.”