Figures released today show a record number of households got help to slash heating costs during the recent freezing conditions and heavy snowfalls.

Nearly 7,000 people called the government's energy assistance hotline, averaging 428 calls a day.

A total of 2,041 households will be considered for a package of free measures including energy efficient central heating systems, while 524 households will surveyed for free loft or cavity wall insulation.

Another 1,253 households got help to switch to cheaper fuel tariffs and 773 households were given help to access all the benefits and tax credits they are entitled to.


Energy experts also gave instant practical advice on how to cut bills to all households that contacted the service.

Visiting the helpline's Edinburgh advice centre today, Housing and Communities Minister Alex Neil paid tribute to the energy experts who manned the extended hour's service during the cold snap.

Mr Neil said: "These figures show the Scottish Government's £60 million Energy Assistance Package is doing exactly what it should be doing.

"It's getting help to those most in need, ensuring everyone, especially low-income families, the elderly and those on benefits are helped to reduce fuel bills and be more energy efficient.

"This was never more important than during the recent freezing conditions, when we saw temperatures plummet to fifty year lows."

He continued: "The service was open for longer during this time, and I'm very grateful to all our hard working staff who made sure thousands of people got the help they need.

"We also recently extended the eligibility criteria so more people can benefit. I'd encourage anyone who is struggling with fuel bills to pick up the phone and see what help they can get."

(GK/BMcC)