Maree Todd to hold advice surgeries after ‘heartless’ cut to winter fuel payments
Maree Todd has been “inundated” with messages from elderly constituents worried about how they will cope with the loss of winter fuel payments.
The SNP MSP for Caithness, Sutherland and Ross described the decision by the UK government to cut the payments as “heartless”.
It has prompted her to run a series of fuel poverty advice surgeries this month, including one in Wick. The sessions are being held in partnership with Home Energy Scotland, Citizens Advice Scotland and ALIenergy.
Ms Todd is concerned about the impact of the cut to winter fuel payments on many of her constituents. The drop-in surgeries will offer advice on social security benefits and home energy efficiency.
The Wick event will take place at the Pulteney Centre on Friday, October 25, from 11am to 1pm. Others are planned for Gairloch (October 22), Ardgay (October 24) and Alness (October 28).
Ms Todd said: “Since Labour’s heartless decision to cut winter fuel payments for pensioners, I’ve been inundated with messages from elderly constituents worried about how they’ll cope this winter.
“Fuel poverty is an issue affecting people and families across my constituency. In Caithness, Sutherland and Ross we have some of the highest rates in the UK.
“As we head into the colder months, it’s crucial that we do everything possible to ensure people are receiving all the support they are entitled to.
“I would encourage any of my constituents who are concerned about energy costs this winter to drop in. I will be joined by advisers from Home Energy Scotland, ALIenergy and Citizens Advice Scotland, who will help to offer tailored support and advice.”
