Fears are growing of a “heat or eat” crisis in Galloway amid growing evidence of sky-rocketing fuel and electricity prices.
Gatehouse man Danny Alderslowe got a delivery of fuel oil this week and was stunned to find his bill had more than doubled.
Mr Alderslowe, who lives in rented accommodation half a mile out of town, paid £350 for 1,000 litres last year.
But when his tank was filled up the same consignment cost him an eye-watering £740.
Dad-of-two Mr Alderslowe initially thought it was a case of mistaken identity – until the penny dropped.
He told the News: “When I got the note I though they had got the wrong address.
“That was my first reaction – could you check if that’s really me?
“I did laugh at first but then it wasn’t so funny.
“I thought straight away of the amount of people who must be struggling.
“Up till last year my bill would average £350 to fill up the tank.
“That was for the year because we are energy aware and try not to put the heating on too much.
“When I paid my bill this week it was £740.
“In a rural area like this there are a lot of people with oil central heating who will be getting hit with big bills.
“Rents have increased, other utility bills increased but will wages increase?
“I don’t think that’s going to happen and National Insurance is going up as well.”
Mr Alderslowe who is a member of Living Rent, a Scottish tenants’ union campaigning for decent and affordable housing, added: “I honestly don’t know how older folk and single parents on low wages are managing right now.
“It’s terrifying – it’s getting more and more difficult for people.
“A lot of folk on lower incomes are in private lets.
“You might see more evictions because people can’t afford to pay their both rents and utility bills.
“It will be like a modern day heating clearances.”
Jessica Benzie, communications and volunteer development manager at Dumfries and Galloway Citizens Advice Service (DGCAS), predicted a tough few months for many.
She said: “We are concerned with the energy price cap and other costs rising that fuel poverty could be a real issue this winter.
“We are aware of this issue especially with the end of furlough and the universal credit uplift coming on top of energy increases.
“People are worrying about their budgets and we are expecting a significant increase in our caseload this coming winter.
“We would urge people to get in touch if they are struggling with energy bills or financial pressures.
“This will definitely put pressure on the housing system.”
