Citizens Advice Scotland has responded to the Chancellor’s announcement around energy bills,
Citizens Advice Scotland Chief Executive Derek Mitchell said:
“People have been desperate for support and today’s announcement is very welcome, however those on low incomes are still going to feel a significant squeeze on their household budgets and no one should be in any doubt about what that means - people choosing between feeding their children or keeping them warm.
“One in five people in Scotland are already running out of money regularly before pay day. Demand for online advice around food banks and crisis support is now almost double what they were last year. Today’s cost of living crisis risks a tsunami of poverty, debt and destitution in the months and years ahead.
“People who are worried should seek advice from the CAB network, whether that’s from a local Citizens Advice Bureau or online resources like our public advice site or www.MoneyMap.scot.
"Our advice is free, impartial and confidential. Last year we unlocked £147million for people through things like social security payments and employment entitlements. The average value for those who saw a gain was over £4,400, which can be simply life-changing money for people.”
ENDS