4th October marks the start of the annual Challenge Poverty Week. Simply keeping warm in winter is a challenge for many people in Fife, who are already struggling to afford increasing and expensive fuel bills. In addition, the cold winter months threaten ill health and isolation.
This year brings additional challenges to those trying to heat their homes. The ‘UK Energy Crisis’ has caused an increase in energy bills and several suppliers have ceased trading.
Around 26% of households in Fife are currently classed as living in fuel poverty, spending more than 10% of their annual income trying to heat their homes. This can mean choosing between cooking hot meals and heating their homes.
Most people would be unlikely to identify themselves as being in fuel poverty, they’re more likely to think:
- I can’t pay my gas bill / top up my meter
- I can’t afford to turn on the heating
- My home is always damp or cold
- I’m always ill
The causes for these can be complex, however fuel poverty can be due to:
- Low income
- High fuel costs
- Energy inefficient homes
What help is available for those struggling?
Households may be entitled to the Warm Home Discount. This is a scheme where you can apply for a £140 rebate on your energy bills to help with the cost of heating your home during the winter months.
We’ve also put together blogs for those worried about the UK Energy Crisis or Impacted by their energy supplier going bust.
If you’re worried about heating your home this winter, paying your bills or improving the energy efficiency of your property we’d urge you to get in touch.
How Cosy Kingdom help
We offer free and impartial energy advice to anyone living in Fife. This will primarily be through a telephone call however as COVID-19 restrictions have lifted we are able to offer home visits too. All our energy advice is tailored to your unique situation and household.
We’ve also got a range of advice videos available on our new YouTube channel, you can find them all here.
Get Advice
If you live in Fife, Cosy Kingdom is here to help. Our friendly, knowledgeable advisors can advise anyone living in the kingdom, regardless of whether you own your home, rent from the council, privately or from a housing association. We can help you find solutions to help you manage your fuel costs and stay warm at home.
Book a call back by getting in touch via our online booking form. You can also call the office directly on 01592 807930.