Mike Pringle Supports Winter Warmth Message

10.00.00pm GMT Tue 27th Jan 2009

Mike Pringle MSP is backing Energy Action Scotland's Winter Warmth campaign to help everyone struggling with fuel bills this winter. The latest official figures show that in the year 2007/2008 over 24% of Scottish households were forced to spend more than 10% of their income on fuel alone.

The campaign seeks to raise awareness of what ordinary people can do to help lower their fuel bills through increasing their home's energy efficiency, checking whether they are entitled to benefits or tax credits to help with bills, and whether they are on the best energy tariff for their needs.

More information is available through Home Heat Helpline on freephone 0800 33 66 99.

Norman Kerr, Director, Energy Action Scotland said

"Following these 3 areas of advice can help reduce the amount of energy you need to use at home and help towards paying your energy bills."

Mike Pringle MSP said

"This is an excellent initiative. In these difficult economic times it is vital that everyone pulls together to help those who are struggling in fuel poverty and raising awareness is a vital component of that.

"If everyone takes these simple steps this winter Scotland can be a warmer, greener place. They may even help save lives.

"Together we can help to dramatically reduce the impact of fuel poverty."