By Amanda Eleftheriades
Photo by Chris McCaughey
A quarter of Scottish households were living in fuel poverty long before the pandemic started.
Now with energy bills set to rocket, people living on low incomes will have one more financial headache to add to the rising cost of living.
According to West Dunbartonshire Citizens Advice Bureau thousands of households are already turning their heating off so they can afford food and other daily essentials.
But help is available.
The Home Heating Support Fund helps domestic consumers reduce their bills, including paying off energy arrears.
There is also assistance with energy vouchers, and in some circumstances, there are additional funds available to help people in need.
West Dunbartonshire Citizens Advice Bureau can help people in Dumbarton, Clydebank and the Vale access this support.
Anyone concerned about their energy bills can contact WD Citizens Advice Bureau on 0800 484 0136 or contact via their website www.wdcab.uk for free, confidential and impartial advice.
Home Energy Scotland also provides support and advice on government-funded heating and insulation improvements and support with energy bills.
Call 0808 808 2282 or visit www.homeenergyscotland.org to request a call back.
Several local community groups also offer support, their advice is don’t be afraid to ask if you need help.