Keeping Children And Families Warm This Winter

6th February 2010

For many families, winter marks the beginning of their struggle to afford to heat their homes. However, this year could be different. Mike Thornton, Director, Scotland for the Energy Saving Trust, says a new initiative from the Scottish Government can help.

"We are all looking for ways to make our fuel costs lower and our homes warmer this winter and the Energy Assistance Package has been designed to do just that. It's open to everyone in Scotland and can provide real help to those on low incomes. The Energy Assistance Package could be especially helpful to families with children under 16 and pensioners including those who live in a residential mobile home.

"The package is a new approach to helping people save money and save energy and provides real benefits - from cost savings on gas and electricity, to home insulation or even a whole new heating system."

By calling the Energy Assistance Package hotline (free from landlines) on 0800 512012 or visiting www.energyassistancepackage.com you can find out about the offers that may be available, including:

· Energy advice - to find out how to make your home as energy efficient as possible - that can save up to £300 a year.

· Help to find out if you are entitled to more money through benefits or tax credits - some people have discovered that they could get up to £1000 extra a year.

· Help to switch to the lowest-cost gas or electricity rates - which can save up to £100 a year.

· Free loft or cavity wall insulation for eligible people

· Other measures such as additional insulation, central heating and renewable heating systems.