Scarf and SGN are working in partnership to reduce fuel poverty by helping households use their energy safely, efficiently and affordably.
SGN and Scarf
Go To WebsiteAddressed Challenges:
- Health & wellbeing
- Carbon emissions
- Greater fairness/ Just transition
Action Areas:
- Energy
Initiative Purpose:
- Adaptation
The Story
Fuel poverty is a growing crisis in Dundee, with significant impacts on residents’ physical and mental health. Recognising this, Scarf, an energy efficiency and environmental charity, expanded its home energy advice service in partnership with SGN. The initiative addressed a critical need, especially for families with young children and residents of deprived areas, by offering tailored, in-home support.
Scarf advisors provide personalised assistance, from energy efficiency tips to helping households choose suitable tariffs and manage energy debt. The service also includes practical interventions such as installing low-cost energy-saving measures like LED bulbs and radiator foils.
The project benefited from collaboration with organisations like Home Energy Scotland, Dundee Citizens Advice Bureau, food banks, and employment services. These partnerships enhanced Scarf's ability to deliver comprehensive support to vulnerable households while aligning with Dundee City Council’s fuel poverty strategy.
The commitment of Scarf and its partners has already benefitted thousands of Dundee residents, ensuring that the most vulnerable can navigate rising energy costs with confidence and dignity.
Success & Outcomes
Early outcomes show that Scarf has already provided support to 1581 vulnerable households across Dundee. Advisors have successfully guided residents in implementing practical changes, improving their energy efficiency, and reducing their energy costs. Of those 1581; 499 have recieved information on Carbon Monoxide awareness (with 117 CO alarms handed out), 417 have been referred to the Pirority Services Register, 117 have been provided with energy saving measures, and £12,184.00 of energy vouchers have been provided.
Partnerships with local organisations have further amplified the project’s reach and effectiveness with Scarf having attended 117 events/workshops in the local area.
Advice for others looking to do something similar
Collaboration is essential. Work with partners who bring complementary expertise and resources, as Scarf are doing with SGN and other local organisations. Ensure your approach is personalised and community-focused—tailoring support to the unique needs of individuals can have a transformative impact.
Practicality matters. Offering hands-on solutions like energy-saving devices can provide immediate and tangible benefits, increasing trust and engagement in your initiative.
Finally, integrate advocacy and education into your project. Educating people about energy efficiency not only helps them in the short term but also empowers them for the future. This project helps to inspire long-term change by equipping households with the tools to manage their energy use sustainably.
