Typical Caithness home faces 20 per cent energy bill increase – advice is at hand

Caithness households are facing an increase in energy bills after Ofgem’s announcement yesterday and the end of the UK Government’s £400 Energy Bills Support Scheme on March 31.

A typical household is facing a 20 per cent increase on their energy bills from April 1, after the energy regulator Ofgem announced the new cap.

Scotland’s national advice service, Advice Direct Scotland (ADS), runs the energyadvice.scot service providing free, impartial and practical advice on energy bills for anyone in Scotland.

energyadvice.scot is available at www.energyadvice.scot and on freephone 0808 196 8660, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.

Conor Forbes, director of policy with ADS, said: "Further rises after a difficult winter will alarm many people who are already struggling with household bills.

"We know many Scots are having to make difficult decisions about spending on even essential items, and this could push people into debt or worsen existing problems. The important thing to remember is no one should struggle alone, and help is available. We would urge anyone struggling with energy costs to reach out to their supplier who may have a hardship fund that could help.

"Our energyadvice.scot service also provides free, practical advice on the support and assistance available, such as grants.

"Advisors can also help with understanding energy bills and make referrals to sources of support for those struggling to pay and ensure that households are claiming all the benefits they are entitled to."

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