Western Isles energy adviser becomes fuel poverty ‘Hero’

Over a decade of service helping thousands of people out of fuel poverty has led to a national award for Tighean Innse Gall’s Energy Advice Manager, Kirsty McLeod.

Kirsty was honoured as ‘Fuel Poverty Hero’ by campaigners Energy Action Scotland at a ceremony in Glasgow.

The Western Isles has the highest rates of fuel poverty in the UK due to a combination of climate and poor housing. Over the past four years Kirsty’s team have secured almost £1million to benefit fuel poor households in the communities they support.

Tighean Innse Gall helps people to rent, buy and live in comfortable, affordable homes; promote healthy independent living and assist communities and business to
be more sustainable in the Outer Hebrides.

‘Through sheer hard work, determination and resilience Kirsty and her team 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’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.

Picture shows: Kirsty receives her award from Energy Action Scotland (EAS) chief executive, Frazer Scott and EAS Trustee Liz Marquis.