Fuel poverty threat to kids’ health

Save the Children said parents who cannot afford to heat their homes this winter are not getting the help they need from energy suppliers.

It said the UK Government’s scheme for help with bills reaches just three per cent of families at risk of fuel poverty because energy companies have not committed enough funds this year.

Research shows that growing up in cold, damp homes can slow children’s development and worsen long-term problems like asthma.

Save the Children said more than 64,000 families in Scotland should qualify for a £120 rebate on bills under the Warm Homes Discount Scheme, but only around 2000 families would receive it.