AS TEMPERATURES fall and energy prices increase, a new campaign is aiming to help keep people in the region keep warm this winter.
The Dumfries and Galloway Winter Warmth Campaign brings together a coalition of local organisations to tackle one of the region’s most pressing issues – fuel poverty.
Nick Hopkins is Chair of Tackling Poverty and Inequalities Partnership, and he said: “For some families, it’s a heartbreaking choice between heating and eating. Others are panicked about what their next bill might bring.
“No one in Dumfries and Galloway should have to face that choice or that worry.
“I’m very pleased to say that a strong coalition of local agencies has been established to promote awareness of the support that is available.
“It’s very important that everyone is made aware of the support and advice which is available, ranging from helping with energy bills to identifying grants, energy vouchers and free solid fuel, and that they understand that they don’t need to face these challenges on their own, so they can afford to heat their home.”
Fighting Fuel Poverty
Dumfries and Galloway has one of the highest rates of fuel poverty in Scotland, with over a third of households affected.
This is driven by a combination of cold rural temperatures, off-grid homes, and high levels of poverty.
To combat this, the campaign offers practical advice, financial assistance, and direct help.
Residents can access resources through the Cost-of-Living website www.costofliving.dumgal.gov.uk which now includes a Winter Warmth section.
Nick said: “We’ve included tips on keeping homes warm affordably, advice for older people and those with health conditions, and information on where to turn for energy support.”
Help Is Available
The campaign is backed by several local organisations – Lemon Aid, Dumfries and Galloway Citizen’s Advice Service, Home Energy Scotland, Social Security Scotland, Dumfries and Galloway Council, DG Handy Van Project, Third Sector Dumfries and Galloway and Dumfries and Galloway Health and Social Care Partnership.
A range of support available from partners can include:
- Dealing with billing issues and energy suppliers on their behalf.
- Providing advice to get them back on supply if they’ve cut themselves off.
- Sorting out fuel debts.
- Helping them save energy, including by accessing grants for home improvements.
- Providing direct help with energy vouchers and even access to free solid fuel.
- Offering benefit checks and help with benefit applications to get them their due.
Details on who can provide this help are available from the website https://costofliving.dumgal.gov.uk/ Contact details for services are featured on the webpage and in newly created leaflets.
Nick said: “For anyone feeling overwhelmed, these organisations are here to help, whether it’s sorting out a bill or accessing a grant.”
The Dumfries and Galloway Tackling Poverty and Inequalities Partnership is working to reduce poverty across the region.
Nick added: “Our work on this and beyond is about more than getting through this winter — it’s about building resilience.”
A launch video featuring Citrus Energy Organisational Manager (Lemon Aid) Paul Clark is now being promoted by the agencies on social media, and can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/ON9oOTdCrmA
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