While many may be enjoying the current heatwave with winter feeling far away, Changeworks is urging households to act now to get ahead of rising energy bills as people have already reached the limit of what they can cut back on.
With over 1 in 3 extremely concerned about energy bills next winter, Changeworks is calling for more support for householders as energy bills are expected to rise again under the next energy price caps.
People across Scotland are taking increasingly extreme steps to cope with high energy costs. Polling commissioned by leading charity Changeworks found that last winter, 28% said they stayed in bed longer or went to bed earlier to avoid heating their homes, and worryingly, 11% said they avoided staying at home altogether and went to public places to keep warm.
Almost half of people (48%) wore multiple layers indoors to stay warm, while 37% heated only certain rooms to keep costs down. In addition, 1 in 5 (20%) have been late or unable to pay bills over the last year; and 42% say they’ve paid their bills but had to make cutbacks elsewhere.
Changeworks is encouraging householders to seek support now, including checking they are on the most suitable tariff, seeking help with any energy debt, and exploring grants and support for improving home energy efficiency. The organisation is also calling for more support for vulnerable householders as ongoing high energy costs continue to put pressure on household finances.
Changeworks supports householders through services like its Affordable Warmth Services. One client, Treasure, sought help after struggling with high energy bills and needing support with tariffs.
She said: “When you’re already dealing with financial pressure, energy bills become another constant worry. I work full time, but I was still struggling to keep up with energy costs. Trying to navigate complicated tariffs and changes to my meter was stressful and overwhelming.
“The support helped me understand my options and made me feel more in control. It wasn’t just about reducing costs – it helped reduce the stress that comes with not knowing where to turn.”
To prepare for the rise in energy costs, we’ve compiled a list of tips to help householders take action now and ensure they’re ready for the impacts of the price cap.
Changeworks’ Affordable Warmth Services supported more than 6,000 households experiencing fuel poverty in 2025–26. Over the last five years, 26% of people supported through the service have returned for additional support, indicating ongoing need for energy advice and support with managing bills and debt. The charity also works with housing associations to support social housing tenants.
Josiah Lockhart, Chief Executive of Changeworks, said: “Due to the ongoing energy crisis, over the past winter people have already changed their behaviour to keep costs down. They’re rationing heating, wearing extra layers and changing daily routines, but there is a limit to how much more people can cut back.
“We’re continuing to hear from people making impossible choices between essentials and returning for support because their circumstances haven’t improved and their homes haven’t changed. Energy costs and fuel poverty remain unacceptably high and people need support now.
“Improving energy efficiency of homes can help increase warmth, comfort and lower energy bills, but we need greater investment in advice services and home energy improvements. Householders should also seek support early ahead of next winter. Help is available and taking action now could make a real difference before winter arrives.”
Changeworks is calling for investment in local and national support services for vulnerable households and home energy efficiency, reform of the energy price cap, and a targeted, mandatory social tariff.