The 2nd of December 2022 is Fuel Poverty Awareness Day. It’s a day to raise awareness of the challenges many people face to keep their homes warm during the cold winter months and as a result of the current energy crisis, it’s never been more needed.
With the average annual energy billing having almost doubled since last year, many of us are concerned about our energy bills, that’s before prices increase again next April.
Fuel Poverty is a term used to identify households that may be experiencing difficulty managing their energy bills or keeping their homes warm.
Most people would be unlikely to identify themselves as being in fuel poverty, they’re more likely to think or say:
- 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, can usually be attributed to:
- Low income
- High fuel costs
- Energy inefficient homes
Managing your energy use at home
There are lots of things you can do to help keep your home warm this winter.
Make sure you’re getting all the Government support that’s been announced. Many people have reported difficulty obtaining or redeeming their Energy Bill Support Scheme vouchers for example.
If you’ve not already now is the time to apply for the Warm Home Discount! This is a £150 rebate you can claim from your energy supplier. You should get applications in as soon as possible.
If you’re worried about keeping your home warm this winter, or are looking for more advice on the current energy crisis take a look at our blog here.
Help Fuel Fife Folk
Greener Kirkcaldy and St Andrews Environmental Network are appealing for your donations to help support those in need to stay warm over the winter. Your donations will be used to provide vital measures including low-energy electric over-blankets, warm thermal curtains, reflective radiator panels and emergency fuel top-ups.
Any donation, large or small will help. Did you receive the Energy Bill Support Scheme Payment or Winter Fuel Payment, but don’t need it? Why not donate it?
Read how Amanda received help to stay warm earlier this year.
Free and Impartial advice from Cosy Kingdom
Cosy Kingdom is a free and impartial energy advice service available to anyone living in Fife.
We can advise and support on a range of issues such as billing and supplier issues, gas and electricity debt, as well as advice on keeping on top of energy use. We can also offer advice for people who are unable to top up their meters and are at risk of disconnection.
We support thousands of Fifers each year to stay safe and warm and at home.
You can arrange a chat with one of our energy advisors by getting in touch using the contact details below.
Our energy advisors can be contacted by:
- Calling 01592 807930 between 10AM and 3PM Monday to Friday
- Texting COSY then YOUR NAME to 88440
- Emailing info@cosykingdom.org.uk
- Request advice online
- On our Facebook and Twitter social media pages