Almost 3 million Scots wrapping up to avoid switching on the heating
Research by Citizens Advice Scotland suggests we're looking to save money by wrapping up in blankets
Millions of people across Scotland are covering themselves in blankets or wearing extra layers indoors rather than turning on the heating, new research from a charity suggests.
Citizens Advice Scotland (CAS) analysed research from YouGov and found an estimated 2.9 million people had used extra layers, blankets or electric blankets to keep warm rather than turn on the central heating to keep warm in the past year.
Meanwhile, an estimated 2.4 million waited until later in the year to turn the heating on.
The charity is running “Worried this winter” a campaign encouraging people to seek advice from the network in a variety of ways.
CAS director of impact David Hilferty said: "We know that millions of people are worried about energy bills and broader costs this winter, and it’s no surprise that people are taking steps to stay warm rather than turn the heating on.
“However, this can be taken to extremes and there are clear health risks associated with cold homes during the winter.
“If you’re wrapping yourself in blankets it’s worth checking advice from the Citizens Advice network.
“That doesn’t have to be in a local CAB, particularly over the festive break. We have online advice pages and interactive self-help tools which can help you see where you could cut your costs or boost your income.
“People should check www.cas.org.uk/worried to find out more.”