Chancellor's Statement

Citizens Advice Scotland (CAS) has responded to the Chancellor’s statement on support for those struggling with high energy bills. 

CAS energy spokesperson Molly Shevlin said, 

“Evidence from across the Scottish Citizens Advice network shows that households are beginning to be impacted by the surge in global energy prices.  

“People coming to our CABs and our Extra Help Unit were already struggling to afford energy bills before this conflict started, and are now even more deeply concerned about how they will cope.   

“We have called for support to be targeted to those most in need, so we welcome that the Chancellor has agreed that in principle. However, it’s essential that this support delivers lasting impact, not just a one-time intervention in moments of crisis.   

“Support must reach people on low incomes, those who have unavoidably high energy usage due to disability, and those that live in rural or island communities. For these households, the current crisis is another blow to already stretched finances.  

“We desperately need an energy system that works for everyone. The need for long-term, consistent support that gives people financial stability and peace of mind is abundantly clear. Now is the time for ambitious action from the UK Government.”   

CAS has called for a social tariff on energy bills and a robust energy debt write-off scheme as parts of a long-term solution to the crisis in energy affordability.