A new campaign, Worried this winter? Let’s chat, has launched today to raise awareness of the support available to anyone concerned about their energy bills.
Citizens Advice Scotland (CAS) worked with five CABs across Scotland to run local focus groups and get to the heart of the issues being experienced across Scottish communities this winter.
From feelings of embarrassment and anxiety to dread and misery, the picture was clear: more needs to be done to support communities worried about the cost of energy this winter.
That’s why CAS is launching this campaign to raise awareness of the free and confidential support CABs can offer anyone concerned about keeping the heating on.
To launch the campaign, CAS worked with Scottish poet Kevin McLean to create a poem based on the experiences of households with energy debt. With a focus on the emotions and feelings experienced, the poem will be used to encourage more people to get advice whether they are currently in debt or struggling to keep up with payments.
This campaign will run from today until the end of February 2025.
Derek Mitchell, CEO of Citizens Advice Scotland, said: “As energy costs continue to soar, thousands of people across Scotland are worried about how they can afford to keep their lights on and heat their homes this winter.
“Seeking support on energy debt is one of the most common reasons people walk through their local CAB doors. But taking that step can be daunting. Many are worried and anxious about what can be done and are being forced to self-ration heat, live in cold and dark homes, and skip meals just so they can feed their children. This simply isn’t good enough.
“This campaign is just a small step towards breaking down the barriers to support and highlight the stark reality many people face this winter. If this is you or someone you know, please know the Citizens Advice network is here to help. While we are known for the advice we give, CAS also has a responsibility to raise awareness and advocate for change, and we’ll do all we can to ensure a fairer Scotland for all.”
Chief Executive of Consumer Scotland, Sam Ghibaldan, said: “With ongoing affordability and debt challenges facing consumers, in addition to rising energy bills over the winter, this campaign comes at a crucial time for households across Scotland.
“Consumer Scotland’s research demonstrates that many consumers are continuing to struggle with energy costs, particularly those on low incomes or with high essential energy needs, so it is vital consumers know help and support is available.
“We are pleased to support the Worried this Winter campaign to ensure consumers have access to a range of free and confidential information, including advice on their energy bills and the financial support available.”
The poem can be viewed in the new campaign video here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O2GlTeGEToU&feature=youtu.be
Watching the meter tick
Second guessing every flick
Of the light switch
It’s no way to live
The pressure to count every penny just right
Scraping by no end in sight
Never truly in control of your life
What do you do?
When the doors you find
Were built to keep you out
When the signs you see
All point to roundabouts
When you have cut every cost you can
Grabbed on to every helping hand
When you’ve worked
And scrapped
And saved
And planned
But the meter still ticks
There is no simple fix
And it takes time to change
The way the system is
But we will work
Each and every day
To help you navigate
Your way to a place
Where peace can exist
Where the ticking of the meter
Isn’t all there is
