700 people sought energy advice

HUNDREDS of struggling households across Dumfries and Galloway have sought help with energy problems in the past year, according to new figures. Advice Direct Scotland, which runs the national service energyadvice.scot, recorded more than 700 gas and electricity-related complaints from the region in the 12 months to April. Dumfries and Galloway ranked joint ninth in Scotland for the number of disputes. Problems included billing errors, debt and disconnections. Over the past year, the charity provided 180 pieces of general energy advice and dealt with a further 585 specific concerns across Dumfries and Galloway. Billing issues were the most frequently reported problem, making up 29 per cent of all cases. Standard meter problems followed at 14 per cent, while debt and disconnections accounted for 11 per cent. Conor Forbes, director of policy with Advice Direct Scotland, said: “These figures show that the energy crisis is far from over and underscore the alarming scale of the cost-of-living crisis. “As Scotland’s national energy advice service, we’ve seen significant demand from people across Dumfries and Galloway seeking help with bills, debts, and disconnections. “Since the start of the year, we’ve also seen increasing concerns about the looming switch-off of RTS meters. “With the June 30 deadline approaching, it’s crucial that anyone still using these meters contacts their supplier to avoid losing heating or hot water. “Despite the warmer weather, many people are still struggling financially, and assistance is just a phone call away. “Our advisers can help with understanding energy bills, meter issues, and direct people to the support and benefits they’re entitled to. “Anyone facing difficulties should visit www.energyadvice.scot or call 0808 196 8660.”