Third sector fuel poverty ‘Heroes’ honoured

Five ‘Fuel Poverty Heroes’ were honoured for their work in helping thousands of people around the country out of debt and working to make their homes warmer.

Fuel poverty campaigners Energy Action Scotland presented the awards at their annual conference in Glasgow.

The five energy advisors from the Western Isles, Ayrshire, Glasgow, Stirling, Edinburgh and Paisley have all gone above and beyond to help vulnerable people in the face of rising energy costs.

‘A warm, secure home is a basic Human Right identified under article 25 of the 1948 declaration, but too often this is being ignored in the face of spiralling energy costs. Through sheer hard work, determination and resilience all the people honoured have secured tremendous outcomes for people in some of the most difficult of circumstances,’ said Energy Action Scotland chief executive, Frazer Scott

‘Our sector, our members individually and collectively provide incredible service to people. Armed with knowledge, experience, drive and a clear sense of right from wrong these people save lives on a daily basis.’

Latest figures from Scottish Government, show that fuel poverty rates in Scotland are now 31%, well above the 2019 figure of 24%. Fuel poverty happens when household is spending more than 10% of their income on energy – after housing costs have been deducted.

Energy Action Scotland recently wrote to the First Minister urging him to reinstate the Fuel Insecurity Fund in next month’s budget.

“The Fund, which was worth £30 million last year, provided advice and grant funding for fuel poor households and helped the people being honoured here tonight and many more make a real difference to those in society most at risk. Bringing it back will literally help save lives, added Frazer.

Energy Action Scotland’s annual awards are an opportunity for the national organisation – which campaigns to raise awareness of fuel poverty and lobby the Scottish Government to make positive changes – to recognise those across Scotland that have made significant impacts in combating fuel poverty.

Retiring chief executive of Ayr Energy, Liz Marquis, was also honoured with a lifetime achievement award.

Picture shows: All the ‘Heroes’ received her award from Energy Action Scotland (EAS) chief executive, Frazer Scott and EAS Trustee Liz Marquis.