NEW research from Edinburgh-based social enterprise Changeworks has revealed that fuel poverty in Scotland may be accelerating, with those under 35 particularly hard hit.
The organisation’s recent survey found that 50% of households in Scotland say their home is not as warm as they would like or is cold. The Scottish Government estimates around a third (34%) of households in Scotland were in fuel poverty in its latest figures from 2023.
The survey, by 56 Degree Insight for Changeworks, also found that 37% of Scots are extremely or very concerned about being able to afford their energy bills this winter, with concern rising to 45% of those under 35.
The coldness of homes has knock-on effects for the wellbeing, work and productivity of employees, too. Changeworks is highlighting an opportunity for companies to engage with staff on this issue through its Low Carbon Living sessions.
Josiah Lockhart, chief executive of Changeworks, said, “Fuel poverty and the inefficiency of many Scottish homes affect an increasingly wide cross-section of society. As part of growing efforts to tackle fuel poverty, there is now a significant opportunity for all employers to engage with their people on this issue to improve wellbeing, reduce bills and ensure out-of-office working conditions support a productive workforce.
“For employers in the central belt and southern Scotland, our practical Low Carbon Living (LCL) sessions deliver free energy and money-saving advice to workplaces and community groups. These sessions help to overcome the challenges identified in the latest survey, giving individuals the knowledge and support to make positive change in their homes that can benefit the environment, as well as the individual.
“Personalised support is also available to households through our free and confidential Green Energy Helpline.”
Mark Kennedy, director at Crisis, added, “As an organisation we are keenly aware of the challenges faced by people affected by poverty in managing their fuel consumption in an energy efficient and sustainable way. The increased knowledge and awareness provided by the Changeworks session with our team has provided them with the skills to ensure people using our services are receiving the best and most up to date advice on fuel efficiency and ensuring the most cost effective solutions for them.”
