Shock tactics being used by debt company

Campaigners in Glasgow joined forces on Friday (10 February) to protest outside a debt company’s office which is at the centre of enforcing prepaid meters on those who can’t pay rising energy costs.  

Power to the People describes itself as a non-partisan campaign, that brings together academics, researchers, councillors, former MSPs and representatives from the climate movement. 

Arvato debt collectors have been forcibly installing prepayment meters with cash bonuses - encouraging them to ignore vulnerabilities say campaigners.

According to the agents themselves, the homes of single mothers were among those visited most often.

During the first half of 2022, Centrica - the owners of British Gas - reported profits of £1.3bn. Campaigners say that, in spite of handing millions to shareholders, the corporation is determined to pursue the most vulnerable.

In Scotland, 32,000 warrants for forced installation were applied for by energy companies in the first 10 months of 2022.

College lecturer and former MSP, Frances Curran, said: “These companies are vultures. Frightening children and vulnerable people, breaking down doors and collecting bigger bonuses the more people they plunge into darkness. This practice should be made illegal in Scotland.

Alistair Craig, Power To The People organiser, said: “We’re protesting against Arvato to send a message to all those who profit from poverty in this city. If you’re in the business of exploiting Glasgow’s most vulnerable people, you can expect a visit from the Power to the People campaign.”

Glasgow Labour councillor, Matt Kerr, commented: “Amidst a cost of living crisis, Arvato broke into our homes at the behest of an energy company making millions. Their profits are our pain. With energy bills set to rise once more in April, this is an act of violence and greed we cannot let pass without protest.”