News Release: Pharmacies asked to help promote health through warm, dry homes

Local pharmacy shops across Scotland are being asked to promote a new leaflet ‘Ways to help you keep warm and comfortable in your home’.  Launched in Perth today (12 February), the leaflet aims to spread the word about the assistance available to those living in cold, damp homes that could have a negative effect on their health.

MSP for Perth, Roseanna Cunningham will present the first leaflets to Sandy Tinning of RP Blair Pharmacy in South Methven Street, Perth.  Mr Tinning has agreed to stock the leaflets so that his customers can take away information on grants for home insulation, sources of energy-saving advice and tips on how to lower energy bills.

The leaflets will be distributed to all pharmacies in Scotland.  They have been produced by fuel poverty charity Energy Action Scotland, with support from Scottish Hydro Electric.  The National Pharmacy Association is also backing the leaflet.

Roseanna Cunningham MSP said: “I am delighted to be able to help Energy Action Scotland publicise this important initiative.  Fuel poverty is an absolute scandal in an energy rich country such as Scotland so everything that can be done to help people keep their homes warm in winter is to be welcomed.”

Liz Futcher, Development Manager, Energy Action Scotland added: “Often those who need help the most to keep warm at home at a price they can afford are unaware that grants and advice are available.  As a trusted member of the community, the local pharmacist is well-placed to bring this information to their attention.  Energy Action Scotland is grateful to all the partners, particularly Scottish Hydro Electric, who have helped make this initiative possible.”

Scottish Hydro Electric's Head of Priority Services, Keith Chalmers said: "This leaflet gives some valuable advice to people who may be feeling vulnerable and need support.  Tackling fuel poverty is in everyone's interest and we want to play a constructive role, along with the government and agencies like Energy Action Scotland to make a real difference to those who need it most."

Energy Action Scotland estimates that around 650,000 households in Scotland currently live in fuel poverty which means they struggle to heat their homes at a price they can afford.  Research has shown that often these householders are unaware of the help that is available and this new leaflet aims to address that problem.

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For further information contact:

Elizabeth Gore, Public Relations and Information Manager, Energy Action Scotland on email: e.gore@eas.org.uk or tel: 0141 226 3064

or

Liz Futcher, Development Manager, Energy Action Scotland on email: liz.futcher@eas.org.uk or tel: 0141 226 3064

Background Notes:

1.  Energy Action Scotland is the national charity that campaigns to end fuel poverty and works to promote warm, dry homes for all.  Website: www.eas.org.uk

2.  Fuel poverty is defined as having to spend more than 10% of household income on fuel costs.