Warning of 'tsunami of poverty' in Caithness as energy crisis bites

Caithness is facing "a tsunami of poverty" as a result of "sky-rocketing" energy bills, increased taxes and rising inflation.

That was the prediction made by Thurso Community Development Trust chairwoman Helen Allan, who highlighted some of the problems being faced by local people.

Speaking at this week's meeting of Thurso Community Council, she mentioned the case of a young working couple with a child who are paying £50 to £60 a week on electricity.

"There is a tsunami of poverty coming towards us. We are already seeing bits of it. It is a slow trickle at the moment but it is going to come," she said.

Thurso and Northwest Caithness Highland councillor Donnie Mackay also expressed concern about rising bills and the cost of living.

He referred to a woman who lives on her own in Reay and is paying £180 a month on heating bills. "She has one electric fire in her living room and washes herself in cold water," he said. "It is chronic. I am trying to deal with it and feel for the person."

Mr Mackay added: "Wages are not going up to meet these higher bills. I thought we would get cheaper electricity when we got wind farms here but it is getting dearer.

"A lot of older people in Thurso must be suffering. It is a terrible situation. Highland Council talks about poverty but is putting up rents and council tax."

His fellow Thurso councillor, Struan Mackie, said bills are "sky-rocketing" and pointed out he has seen a 450 per cent increase in his email correspondence from people concerned about rising costs.

People feel "very embarrassed asking for help" but he suggested they should come forward "sooner rather than when they are at breaking point".

"We are producing so much energy here and yet we are paying a high premium," said Mr Mackie, who hit out at what he described as "ridiculous" transmission charges which need to be addressed by the UK government. "It is shameful," he said.

Iain Gregory of Caithness Roads Recovery said there are areas of "multiple deprivation" in Caithness and some people may not have money to eat or heat their homes.

Community council chairman Ron Gunn said fuel bills are "going through the roof".

"It is not going to get any easier and will get more and more difficult with people having to decide between eating or heating. I think it would be a good idea to keep an eye out for neighbours and see if they are okay," he said..

Sadie Kevill, the Caithness Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) manager, said they could offer help to those who are struggling with energy bills or financial hardship.

She said: "Poverty is a huge concern for us considering the financial challenges that face the community. Increased food and fuel bills are hitting people hard, at time when finances are already stretched.

"Individuals and families are being faced with the difficult choice of staying warm or eating.

"Caithness CAB have an energy adviser to support clients who are having difficulty with energy bills and a team of experienced advisers who can help clients who are facing financial hardship.

"We are also part of Caithness Poverty Action Group which is a local partnership developed to find ways to tackle the poverty issues in our community. We are really committed to do whatever we can to help."

For help, call Caithness CAB on 01847 894243 or email bureau@caithnesscab.casonline.org.uk

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