By Alan Richardson

WITH £2.9 million in benefits left unclaimed last year, a major effort is being made to ensure there is no need to choose between heating and eating in Perth and Kinross this winter.

The council has vowed not to sit idly by amid rising energy costs and residents slipping into fuel poverty—when 10% or more of household income is spent on gas and electricity.

Housing and health convener Councillor Peter Barrett revealed at the weekend the authority will launch a winter anti-poverty drive, including providing assistance getting free heating systems and insulation and negotiating with energy firms.

He said, “We are committed to helping our residents tackle fuel poverty and assisting those who are experiencing hardship through excessive energy costs.

“The council is launching a winter anti-fuel poverty drive for both tenants and private householders, targeted particularly at people who are vulnerable to fuel poverty such as pensioners, people on benefits and those living in hard to heat homes.

“Living in a warm home is vital for the health and well-being of everyone, and is a basic human requirement. We are eager to help anyone who needs our assistance.

“The council’s welfare rights team has identified £2.9 million in unclaimed benefits over the last year for the people of Perth and Kinross, and much of the team’s work is focused on those who might find it difficult to pay fuel bills.

“Anyone who asks the welfare rights team for help is offered a comprehensive welfare benefit check to ensure that they are receiving the correct benefits.

“The team also looks at ways of maximising the customer’s income, and can also provide advice on debt management if necessary.”

The council will even step in to speak to providers on behalf of their hard-pressed customers.

Mr Barrett said, “When energy costs are impacting on a customer we will assist and advocate on their behalf and negotiate with their energy supplier in order to improve their situation.

“For example, we can seek advice on free insulation and the most affordable tariffs for customers.

“We can also provide customers with advice on energy efficiency as a way of preventing future arrears or hardship.

“In cases where older people have heating systems are old or in a state of disrepair, council staff can assist them in applying for free central heating.

“For those aged over 60 we will also ensure that an application has been made for the winter fuel payment.

“I would urge anyone experiencing difficulties to get in touch with our dedicated services, which can provide expert advice and help.”

Members of the housing and health committee will hear about these initiatives at a meeting on Wednesday.

The council’s welfare rights team can be contacted on 01738 646830. Advice on energy efficiency is available from Perth and Kinross Energy Efficiency Advice Project on 0800 512012 or lmaclean@scarf.org.uk.