IAIN SMITH MSP SUPPORTS WINTER WARMTH MESSAGE

8.00.00pm GMT Wed 28th Jan 2009

North East Fife's MSP Iain Smith is urging people worried about their energy bills or about keeping warm enough this winter to follow the advice of Energy Action Scotland, the charity working for warm, dry homes.

In its winter warmth campaign, Energy Action Scotland says:

· Be Energy Efficient

Make sure your home is as energy efficient as possible. Get advice about easy and inexpensive ways you can save energy, for example by draught-proofing or by using appliances in a more economical way. You can also find out about making your home or your heating system more energy efficient, perhaps with cavity wall insulation or a heat pump. Contact the Energy Saving Scotland advice centre on freephone 0800 512 012.

· Check Benefits or Tax Credit Entitlement

Many people don't realise they can increase their income by claiming the benefits or tax credit they are entitled to get. The extra income can be very helpful when the winter energy bills come in. Contact your local Citizens Advice Bureau for advice.

· Get the Best Energy Deal

Find out if you can get a better deal from your electricity or gas company. Sometimes you can save money by switching to a different tariff or selecting a different way to pay your bills. Some companies also offer special services, like social tariffs, for certain groups of people. Check out what's available for your needs via the Home Heat Helpline on freephone 0800 33 66 99.

Iain Smith said:

"This winter has been one of the coldest for years and many people simply will not have turned up their heating due to the spiralling costs. A combination of the current economic climate and increased heating bills have meant that many are having to chose between heating and eating.

"Although we have recently seen wholesale gas prices drop, the energy companies have not been forthcoming in passing on these savings to domestic customers. This needs to be rectified."

Norman Kerr, Director, Energy Action Scotland said:

"Following these 3 areas of advice can help reduce the amount of energy you need to use at home and help towards paying your energy bills."