A CAMPAIGN has been launched to ensure older people at risk of fuel poverty are aware of support services.

Age Scotland, Age UK and Age Cymru have partnered up with gas distribution networks such as SGN in a £1million partnership.

The campaign will look to ensure that older people in the UK are aware of and assisted to access the support services which help increase household income, including benefits checks.

It will also provide information on how to use energy safely and efficiently at home.

Kerry Potter, SGN's social impact and vulnerability manager, said: “Looking after our vulnerable customers is so important to us at SGN, so I’m delighted we’ve launched this impactful partnership with the UK’s leading older people’s charities.

“We understand that many older people aren’t aware of the support available to help with essential household costs, which is why we’re all working to a common outcome to help them maintain a safe and warm home, through the right support and information.”

The funding, which has been provided through the Vulnerability and Carbon Monoxide Allowance (VCMA) by the energy industry regulator Ofgem, also allows the charities to assist older people join the Priority Services Register – ensuring they’ll receive extra support if they’re ever without their gas, water, or electricity supply.

Mark O'Donnell, Age Scotland chief executive, said: “We’re incredibly grateful to SGN for their support in keeping older people safe and warm at home and delighted to be joining forces with the other leading older people’s charities to reach even more people in need of advice and support.

“Our national helpline regularly hears from older people who may not be claiming everything they are entitled to, often leading to difficulties in heating their homes to a comfortable level.

“Unfortunately, hundreds of millions of pounds worth of social security support goes unclaimed by older people in Scotland every year, whether that be due to difficulty in accessing it, lack of awareness or perceived stigma surrounding social security.

“Given current cost of living pressures, it’s vital that people know where to turn for help and advice and are claiming the support they are entitled to.

“The demand for advice and support has never been greater, and we know this partnership will make a real difference to the lives of older people across Scotland.”