High energy costs have left some families having to choose between heating and eating, a survey of social workers has shown
In a snapshot of the experiences of some of those working with the most vulnerable families across the UK, social workers reported the consequences of high energy costs. The small survey was completed in February by 716 social workers – just over 4% of the 16,000 frontline social workers who are members of the SWU. Some 348 of the respondents gave written comments.Another stated: “Pre-Victorian times. An absolute disgrace. Change is needed.”
“Children living in cold, damp, mouldy homes is a national scandal and we need to see drastic action being taken to fix Britain’s broken energy system.” Simon Francis, coordinator of the End Fuel Poverty Coalition, added: “What we need to see is a much faster rollout of programmes to improve the energy efficiency of buildings and bring down the cost of energy.