Winter warmth campaign in Dumfries and Galloway to help with fuel poverty
The region has one of the highest rates of fuel poverty in Scotland
More than a third of households in Dumfries and Galloway are struggling with fuel poverty this winter, according to campaigners.
The Winter Warmth Campaign by the Tackling Poverty and Inequalities Partnership aims to use a coalition of local organisations to combat the issue, by helping families access the support available.
The area has one of the highest rates of fuel poverty in Scotland, partly due to a combination of cold rural temperatures, off-grid homes, and higher levels of poverty.
Chair of the Partnership Nick Hopkins said: “For some families, it’s a heartbreaking choice between heating and eating.
"It's a heart breaking choice"
“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.”
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.
"Choice between heating and eating"
The hope is for households across the region to have access to financial assistance and direct help.
Mr Hopkins continued: “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.”
The partnership is offering services such as dealing with billing issues and energy providers on behalf of households, helping to save energy, and helping to give access to solid fuel where needed.
Mr Hopkins said: “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.”
He added: “Our work on this and beyond is about more than getting through this winter — it’s about building resilience.”
Details on who can provide this help are available from the council website.