Some people in Scotland will face a choice between eating and heating their homes this winter.
It comes at a time of soaring energy bills, higher interest rates and rising inflation.
The Scottish government estimated 36 per cent of homes will be in fuel poverty after the energy price cap will rise in October.
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This is defined as the cost of heating a home being more than 10 per cent of household income, after tax and housing costs have been deducted.
Sharon McAulay, Chief Executive at Star Project, said: “I think the Scottish Government’s estimation is optimistic and the actual number will be much higher than this. Thousands of households in Renfrewshire are already living in poverty and choosing between food and paying bills. This is only going to get worse as the weather gets colder and energy costs continue to soar.
“Our elderly and more vulnerable community members are most at risk and health officials are now calling for Government action to prevent a ’humanitarian crisis’.”
There are concerns for Renfrewshire’s elderly as those who are older may find it harder to regulate their body temperature.
There are some fears that many might skip meals to keep on top of their rising energy bills.
Due to struggling to pay their bills, there is a risk that many families in Renfrewshire could live in damp conditions which, in return, could cause other health problems.
Sharon added: “The level of inaction by Westminster is unforgivable. The PM, outgoing or not, and his advisors need to actually do their jobs, the jobs we’re paying them to do. People are struggling now and they’re scared of what’s to come.
“We’re seeing an increase in strikes and mass protests as people are sick to the back teeth of being treated so unfairly. This will only escalate if the Government continues to sit on their backsides twiddling their thumbs.”
If looking for help to help pay for your energy bills, visit Citizens Advice Scotland for free, impartial advice on: www.citizensadvice.org.uk/scotland/
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