Charity asks for donation of energy payment

People are being urged to donate the £400 they receive through the energy support scheme to help those in need amid the cost-of-living crisis.

A GIVE400.scot initiative is encouraging households to donate the money to charities or good causes of their choice, or via the Corra Foundation.

Most households in the UK are receiving a £400 discount on their energy bills between October and March, which is being paid in monthly instalments in a government scheme.

The Corra Foundation’s Household Hardship Fund makes small grants to charities and community groups, delivering funding to people on low incomes, with cash or vouchers to cover food, fuel, household items and clothing.

Carolyn Sawers, chief executive of Corra Foundation, said: “Every extra pound donated, whether directly or through Corra, will make a massive difference to families across Scotland struggling every single day just to make ends meet.

“Donations from those who feel they can afford it can ensure that help reaches those who need it most.”

Ms Sawers added: “Having reopened our household hardship fund last week, I can sadly confirm that the levels of need and urgent requests for support are shocking and sobering in scale.”

Stephen Pearson, chair of Financial Inclusion for Scotland, said: “If, say, 10,000 households in Scotland donate the £400 contribution, that could raise £4 million to help those in the greatest need this winter. That would be action, not words.”

Anyone wishing to donate can find out more information at www.give400.scot/