Energy support scheme helps Highland families save almost £200k
A groundbreaking energy support initiative has helped Highland social housing tenants save over £194,000 since it started. The Affordable Warmth Highland scheme, led by Albyn Housing Society in collaboration with Cairn Housing Association and Changeworks, has provided significant financial relief since its launch in May 2023.
To date, the scheme has secured £194,268 in total financial gains for tenants, including £68,618 in grants and additional support for Albyn tenants. In total, the initiative has assisted 1,431 households in the Highlands, with 979 Albyn Housing tenants benefiting directly. This includes 88 home visits,of which 68 were for Albyn tenants and 20 for Cairn tenants, and a total of 1434 advice calls supporting Albyn and Cairn tenants.
Supported by the Energy Industry Voluntary Redress Fund, the scheme offers expert energy advice, helping tenants reduce heating costs, improve warmth, and alleviate financial stress— especially in rural areas with limited access to the gas grid. This two-year initiative, coming to an end after this winter, provides targeted guidance on effectively using heating systems, including low-carbon solutions like air source heat pumps, and offers support to new tenants
to prevent future energy-related issues.
These results highlight the scheme’s tangible impact, helping families across the Highlands reduce energy costs and improve financial stability. High energy costs remain the most significant issue facing tenants, alongside challenges in dealing with energy suppliers and understanding newer, more complex heating systems. The initiative’s advisors have also noted that fuel poverty often intersects with other personal, societal, and health challenges, adding to the difficulties faced by many households.
Maureen Knight, Deputy Chief Executive of Albyn Housing Society, emphasised the scheme’s importance: “Fuel poverty is a pressing issue across Scotland, but tenants in the Highlands face additional challenges due to colder temperatures and limited access to the gas grid. Since launching the Affordable Warmth Highland scheme in May 2023, our teams have been dedicated to providing vital support, including energy-saving products and financial assistance.
“This initiative is essential in helping tenants manage escalating energy costs and improve their living conditions, ensuring warmth and affordability are accessible to those who need it most. By offering expert advice on energy use, the scheme takes our efforts a step further, alleviating financial pressures and helping families stay comfortable in their homes.”
Audrey Simpson, Chief Executive of Cairn Housing Association, said: “The Affordable Warmth Highland scheme has made a real difference to our tenants, helping them navigate rising energy costs and access crucial support. Many of the households we work with face significant challenges in keeping their homes warm and affordable, particularly in remote and rural areas. This initiative has provided expert advice and financial assistance, ensuring tenants can heat their homes efficiently and with confidence. We are proud to have partnered with Albyn and Changeworks to deliver such an impactful programme.”
Morven Masterton, Head of Community Engagement and Energy Advice Services at Changeworks said “We know there is a high level of fuel poverty among tenants living in social housing and despite best efforts, housing staff don’t always have the resource and expertise to provide this advice and advocacy support.
“Changeworks was pleased to build on an existing partnership with Albyn and Cairn housing associations in the Highlands to deliver energy advice. We have provided that additional layer of support to tenants who could benefit from targeted information and advice, whether that be about managing their energy use, understanding their home systems better, or tackling billing issues and fuel debt.
“While this initiative is coming to an end, we are encouraged that our partnership continues through a new dedicated service, Tenant Energy Support.”
The Affordable Warmth Highland scheme continues to offer vital support, ensuring tenants in the region receive the advice and assistance needed to navigate rising energy costs while promoting energy efficiency and sustainability.