Disabled Scots face 'hidden crisis' as heating and equipment costs rise
Scotland's disabled people may be "choosing between charging a mobility scooter or buying food", according to Citizens Advice Scotland.
'Inconceivable Choices'
Scotland’s disabled people are facing a ‘hidden cost of living crisis’, as data reveals the added pressure they’re dealing with.
Citizens Advice Scotland (CAS) estimates that 136,252 disabled Scots must run medical equipment, which can contribute to higher energy bills.
A further 527,977 people need to keep their homes at certain temperatures due to their disabilities, whilst 255,472 people have to cook specific meals.
CAS Social Justice spokesperson Stephanie Millar said: “We have seen examples of people having to make choices that the larger population might not even conceive of.
"They might have to choose between charging a mobility scooter or buying food."
Support for Glasgow Couple
CAS caseworkers in Glasgow are currently helping a disabled household facing a bill of £6,300 for electricity.
Debt collectors have been chasing the couple’s bills, despite the fact they are unable to read their meter and their supplier hasn't sent out a meter reader since the onset of the pandemic.
One of the couple is recently home from hospital and uses a machine for her kidneys, a mobility scooter and a nebuliser.
Help for All
CAS are now encouraging anyone worried about energy bills and the cost of living to get in touch with their specialist advisors as part of their Big Energy Saving Winter campaign.
The network’s advisors helped struggling Scots find £132 million in extra cash last year, through channels such as security payments and employment entitlements.
The average financial gain for clients was over £4,200.
People can get advice in variety of ways, either from a local Citizens Advice Bureau or through various online platforms.
People can visit www.cas.org.uk/BESW to find out more.