The 3rd of December is Fuel Poverty Awareness Day. It’s a day to raise awareness of the challenge’s many people face to keep their homes warm during the cold winter months.
While we’re in the middle of an Energy Crisis this winter is set to be one of the most difficult and challenging many of us will have faced.
Energy costs alongside other costs of living have increased to record levels as well as other issues relating to the energy suppliers going bust, the COVID-19 pandemic and Universal Credit cuts.
Our fuel costs are likely to increase considerably compared to this time last year and if you’re on a low income or have been financially affected by the pandemic it could be a very worrying time.
If you feel you’re doing okay, it’s worth checking in with family, friends and neighbours to ensure they’re able to keep their homes warm this winter.
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 be due to:
- Low income
- High fuel costs
- Energy inefficient homes
Managing your energy use at home
There’s lots of things you can do to help keep your home warm this winter.
If you’ve not already now is the time to apply for the Warm Home Discount.
Our friends at Fife Council have lots of information on their website.
We’ve also got a range of advice videos available on our YouTube channel, don’t forget to subscribe!
Free and Impartial advice from Cosy Kingdom
Cosy Kingdom is a free and impartial energy advice service available to anyone living in Fife. Under normal circumstances we would offer an energy advice home visit however due to COVID-19 we’re currently operating a telephone service.
We can advise and support on billing and supplier issues, switching and gas and electricity debt, as well as advice on keeping on top of energy use. We can also offer advice for people are are unable to top up their meters and are at risk of disconnection.
Since the start of April 2021, our Advisors have spoken to thousands of unique households to offer advice and support.
You can arrange a chat with one of our energy advisors by getting in touch using the contact details below or clicking here.