Caithness constituents urged to seek help with fuel poverty amid calls to reverse cut to winter fuel payments in Budget
People in Caithness struggling with fuel bills are being encouraged to seek help from their local MSP.
Maree Todd has just completed a series of advice surgeries including in Wick focusing on fuel poverty – but says she is still available to help.
The Caithness, Sutherland and Ross MSP highlighted the range of support available to those experiencing fuel poverty at the surgeries, held in partnership with Citizens Advice Scotland, Home Energy Scotland, and ALI Energy.
Alongside a team of advisors, the MSP hosted drop-in sessions in Gairloch, Ardgay, Wick and Alness between October 22 and 28.
Ms Todd MSP said: “A huge thank you to the team of advisors who joined me over the past few weeks to hold a series of advice surgeries specifically focused on fuel poverty support. Through this, we were able to offer many of my constituents essential financial and practical advice to help them through the winter months.
“Citizens Advice Scotland provides invaluable support with income maximisation, ensuring those struggling financially can access all support they are entitled to.
“Home Energy Scotland and ALI Energy offer a range of practical help, from assistance with utility bill issues to advice on energy-efficient heating practices. They can also provide guidance on available grants to support home insulation and other efficiency improvements to help reduce energy costs.
“I know there are still many people struggling across the constituency who may not have been able to attend these sessions, so please don’t hesitate to reach out if you need support.”
The SNP MSP previously pointed to the recent cuts to Winter Fuel Payments by the UK Labour government as a driving reason for holding fuel poverty advice surgeries, emphasising that many people in the Highlands now face the winter without this financial support.
She added: “With the UK Budget looming, the SNP in Westminster are pressing the Labour government to introduce a comprehensive support package to help households with energy costs.
“Key measures being called for include reversing cuts to the Winter Fuel Payment, cancelling planned increases to fuel duty, implementing a social tariff for energy bills, and providing a clear timeline for delivering on their election promise to reduce energy bills by £300 a year.”
If you live in the Caithness, Sutherland and Ross constituency and need support, Maree Todd can be contacted at maree.todd.msp@parliament.scot or call 01349 888281.
• Keep on eye on our website for more Budget coverage on Wednesday.
