A new poll suggests six-in-10 Scots are worried about affording their bills this year including mortgage repayments, monthly rent, and energy costs. The Survation poll for Scotland’s national advice charity, Advice Direct Scotland, also indicated 17 per cent of those with debt have fallen behind in their repayments.
Commenting on the findings, John Baird, head of debt services with Advice Direct Scotland, said: “This poll demonstrates the alarming scale of Scotland’s debt crisis. A majority of people in the country are worried about being able to afford their financial commitments over the coming year, and debt levels have increased for many.
Top Money Stories Today Help with energy bills People not sure of the support available from their energy provider might find this guide from Les Roberts, content manager at Bionic, handy - especially if the UK Government's £2,500 Energy Price Guarantee goes up to £3,000 on April 1 as planned. Your provider must also give you access to any available hardship funds, charitable grants or help you apply for any available government grants if they have not been automatically applied.
However, he also warned: “If all the above conditions are met and your supplier does supply you with all the above assistance and you still refuse to pay, they do have the right to gain a warrant to enter your home and install a prepayment meter or they could change your smart meter setting to a pay as you go set up.”