Online survey aims to improve energy efficiency and tackle fuel poverty in Caithness
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An online survey has been launched in a bid to improve the energy efficiency of homes in Caithness and tackle fuel poverty.
Caithness Poverty Action Group and Caithness Voluntary Group (CVG) are working alongside a number of partners in the initiative.
Stephanie Remers, a project officer for CVG and chairperson of the poverty action group, explained: "The aim is to help get a better understanding of the areas in Caithness that are needing the most support and to create actions that can help support people who are struggling.
"We would be very grateful if people could take the time to complete the survey."
Partners include Home Energy Scotland, NHS Scotland, Caithness Citizens Advice Bureau, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) and Caithness Foodbank.
Caithness Foodbank volunteer Pat Ramsay said: "We would also like the opportunity to get an understanding of what knowledge the Caithness community have of the food bank, and to raise awareness of its availability to people who are struggling with their finances and finding themselves in a situation where they may have to choose between paying their utility bills or buying food.
"There are referral agents throughout Caithness who can refer anyone to the food bank if they have found themselves struggling financially and just need that extra support."
Caithness CAB manager Sadie Kevill said: "This survey will help Caithness Poverty Action Group to gain further understanding of the energy efficiency and fuel poverty in Caithness and how we can support people in Caithness who are struggling. Poverty affects every area of someone's life and we want to take action to make a positive difference."
Michael Cromby, a home energy specialist with Home Energy Scotland, said: "This survey will hopefully highlight to Caithness households that a broad range of support is available. Rising energy costs and the current climate emergency are just two reasons why it is important we improve the energy efficiency of homes across the county.
"Home Energy Scotland is here to offer impartial advice and support to local households to have warmer homes and lower bills. Call us free on 0808 808 2282 to speak to one of our advisors."
Paddy Farrell has taken over as SFRS station commander for Caithness from Jim Donaldson, who was involved in the early planning stages of the survey. Mr Farrell said: "This is also a great opportunity to raise awareness of fire safety in the home and give people who are at high risk the opportunity to be assessed.
"You can call us on 0800 0731999 to arrange a free home fire safety visit."
The Caithness Household Energy Efficiency Survey 2021/2022 can be found at www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/CVGENERGY
It is being promoted as part of Challenge Poverty Week, running from October 4-10.
