Financial support for Glenrothes residents struggling with fuel poverty will continue into 2027 after a local council agreement.

Councillors on the Glenrothes Area Committee have agreed to extend a local fuel poverty service in a bid to help residents manage their bills and heat their homes.

The service is provided by St Andrews Environmental Network (StAndEN) and has been running since April 2023.

In that time, StAndEN has assisted 480 households across the town, offering money advice, practical help and access to financial support, resulting in more than £100,000 being awarded to residents who were entitled to it.

Glenrothes remains one of the region’s most fuel poverty-affected areas, with seven of the 12 most at-risk locations sitting within the region. The service is designed to reach households most in need, with support delivered across the local community and face-to-face help also readily available.

The funding agreement will allow the locally-based energy advisor to remain in place until at least March 2027, covering the colder winter months when demand is at its peak.

Around one in four people using the service will return for further help, often due to more complex issues such as energy debt or heating system problems, highlighting the ongoing and personal nature of fuel poverty for many Glenrothes households.

For many individuals and families, the service represents a vital lifeline at a time when energy costs continue to place significant pressure on family budgets.

Energy advisor to be available in Glenrothes until 2027. Pic. Contributed.

placeholder image — Energy advisor to be available in Glenrothes until 2027. Pic. Contributed.

Councillor John Beare, convener of the Glenrothes Area Committee, said: “This support is making a real difference for people across the Glenrothes area, helping households manage their energy costs and access the help they need.

“We know many people are still facing real pressures, particularly when it comes to heating their homes. That’s why it’s important we continue to support services like this and make sure help is available to those who need it most.

“Extending this funding allows us to build on what’s already been achieved and continue supporting communities across the Glenrothes area.”

For more information, or advice on how to access available financial support, visit www.standrewsenvironmental.org or call 01334 237950.