Central Scotland Labour MSP Siobhan McMahon has today called on people across the region to ensure they are taking advantage of free help and support available for anyone struggling with winter energy bills.
Her calls come during Debt Awareness Week (January 26 – February 2) which is organised by StepChange Debt Charity. It aims to raise awareness of the help available to those who are struggling to keep on top of their finances at a time of year when the arrival of big bills is particularly unwanted.
She also highlighted the work done by the Scottish Gas Energy Trust, which helps individuals and families living in fuel poverty who are struggling with their gas and/or electricity debts by awarding grants to clear those debts. The aim of the Trust is to give vulnerable individuals a fresh start and enable them to keep free of fuel debts going forward.
Ms McMahon said: “I’m pleased to be able to back this campaign as nobody should suffer in silence. There is a range of help and advice for any constituents who are having problems paying their energy or other household bills.
“One million households in Scotland are now living in fuel poverty which is disgraceful. It is therefore vitally important that we elect a Labour Government in May that would enforce and energy price freeze while reforming the energy market.
“I want all my constituents to understand what help is available for them. Keeping on top of winter bills and managing debt is so important and I urge people across Central Scotland to get in touch with their energy supplier to find out what support is on offer.”
Siobhan McMahon for Central Scotland 