CAS has reported a 62 per cent increase in demand for energy advice compared to last year.

Citizens Advice Scotland (CAS) is warning about the lasting impact of the cost of living crisis, as it publishes its latest data report, covering April 2022.

April was a crunch moment in the cost of living crisis, as the energy price cap increased significantly for households across the country. 

Across the CAB network advice on utilities – namely energy – was up 62 per cent compared to April 2021.

Specific advice on fuel debts have also increased by 71 per cent compared to last year.

Worryingly, online advice around being at risk of homelessness has increased by 27 per cent since last April, and by roughly a third across the CAB network itself over the same time period.

Citizens Advice Scotland (CAS) social justice spokesperson, Stephanie Millar, said: “April 2022 saw a big increase in energy bills for households across the country, and that was reflected in the demand for energy related advice being up almost two thirds compared to April 2021.

“With another big rise likely to be felt in the autumn, we would expect this demand to continue to grow.

“But what is really worrying is the increase in demand for advice around homelessness and debt. That will be the lasting impact of the cost of living crisis – people struggling to make ends meet today are at risk of poverty, debt and destitution in the months to come.

“What this data suggests is the current impact of the cost of living crisis is going to lead to long lasting problems for people, so policy levers to alleviate the crisis must ensure lasting relief.

“In the meantime the Citizens Advice network is here to help. We unlocked £147million for people during the pandemic, people who saw a gain were on average over £4,400 better off. At times like this things can be really tough, but we’re here for everyone regardless of circumstance. We don’t judge, we just help.”