Martin Whitfield MSP is urging South Scotland residents to take advantage of a new campaign providing comprehensive advice on the impact of higher energy bills and the rising cost of living.

Launched by Scotland’s Citizens Advice network, the Big Energy Saving Winter campaign seeks is using all the network’s resources, including local CABs, the Citizens Advice Scotland Money Talk Team service and its online self-help tools like Money Map and public advice site, to help the public make savings this winter.

The campaign is also highlighting that more than one in ten energy cases CABs have dealt with recently have also needed food insecurity advice, meaning the wraparound, person-focused service the CAB network is able to deliver is more important than ever.

Urging residents to access the advice on offer through the campaign, Martin Whitfield MSP said:

“With soaring energy bills and the rising cost of living causing huge anxiety for people across Scotland, I welcome the expert advice that is being highlighted through the Big Energy Saving Winter campaign.

“The Citizens Advice network, including our local CABs across the South Scotland Region, have the knowledge and expertise needed to provide people with the advice, information and support that will help them through this winter.

“Citizens Advice Scotland say that one in six people who sought advice last year saw a financial gain, the average value of which was over £4,200.  That is a substantial amount of money and potentially life-changing for many people.

“So, if you’re worried about your energy bills or other essential costs this winter, please don’t hesitate, just seek advice now.”

Anyone looking for more information about the campaign or help with bills and other costs should visit www.cas.org.uk/besw or call the Scottish Citizens Advice Helpline on 0800 028 1456.