A NORTH Ayrshire housing charity has reported a 30 per cent increase in the demand for their services as the cost-of-living crisis tightens its grip - and says it expects the worst is still to come.

CHAP [Community Housing Advocacy Project], which provides advice on debt, welfare and housing related issues, said that they fear the number will increase – but welcomes the aid North Ayrshire Council [NAC] is offering though the authority's Energy Smart programme.

The plan includes the creation of a £1.7 million to carry out energy efficient home improvements, and a £450,000 fund to offer one-off emergency payments towards energy bills for low-income families.

Debbie Alexander, CHAP's chief executive said: “We have seen a 30 per cent increase in demand for our services over the last year and suspect the worst is yet to come.

“We applaud North Ayrshire Council for this intervention and particularly welcome that some of the cash is available on a discretionary basis.

“Debt can strike for a myriad of reasons, and it is not just those currently on benefits who can find themselves unexpectedly in difficulty.

“Only by working together as a community across North Ayrshire can we ensure that we deliver the greatest possible benefit from existing resources.

“Our most urgent piece of advice for anyone experiencing difficulty is to seek help and advice quickly before problems escalate.”

Through the programme, the council has joined forces with the charity Energy Agency to signpost households to the Home Energy Scotland helpline where they can receive “free and impartial advice.”

The council are also highlighting the Home Energy Scotland South West Helpline which can be called for free on 0808 808 2282.

Councillor Tony Gurney, NAC's cabinet member for economy and climate change, said: “Supporting our residents through the cost-of-living crisis is our number one priority.

“We’ve already made a positive impact for many people who have received energy bill payments and advice but there are many more people who will be eligible and we would urge them to get in touch.

“This fund is available for people in a range of different circumstances including low-income households who are in work but worried about paying their energy bills. If you are struggling, please contact us to find out how we can help.”

To apply for part of the emergency funding you can call 01294 310000 or alternatively apply online at www.portal.north-ayrshire.gov.uk/site/portal/redirected/benefits_ecg_newapp.

Further advice for help for issues related to the cost-of-living crisis can be found on the North Ayrshire Council website: www.north-ayrshire.gov.uk/cost-of-living/cost-of-living.aspx.

Advice on housing, energy, and bills can be found on CHAP’s website: www.chap.org.uk.