Elderly across Stirling being forced to choose heating or eating as energy crisis deepens
dailyrecord.co.ukOlder people in Stirling and Clackmannanshire are buying less food so they can save money to heat their homes as energy costs spiral, a charity has found.Details shared with Food Train, which makes shopping deliveries to over-65s across the regions, have heightened fears that increasing numbers will become malnourished as they try to manage gas and electricity bills amid rapidly rising prices.One Stirling resident said: “I might have to reduce my shopping.
I don’t know how to save money on energy because I need to keep warm. When the temperature drops, I suffer pains.”Food Train has written to Scottish Secretary Alister Jack, calling on the UK Government to double the amount paid in its previously announced Pensioner Cost of Living payment to help people cope with the crisis.Food Train chief executive Michelle Carruthers said: “Our members are very worried about the winter ahead.
Many have no idea how they’ll cope. Some will have to juggle between keeping warm and keeping fed.“This puts people’s lives in danger.
Without immediate action, alarming numbers of older people are going to be at greater risk of malnutrition and social isolation this winter, causing further health problems and putting further strain on our already under-pressure NHS.“The reports we are hearing from our members are heartbreaking, alarming and unacceptable.“Their concerns are clear and are growing.
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