Replacement white goods can be delivered

A systemic fault in a scheme to replace broken white goods for those who could not afford them without going into crippling debt has been fixed.

The Let’s Talk Energy Fund, (LTEF) which is administrated by Charis Grants, was unable to supply replacement white goods including fridges, washing machines, cookers, etc, for householders across the Western Isles despite being available to other postcode areas included the Scheme.

This meant vulnerable householders and families with children across the islands could not store or cook food or wash clothes adequately in some cases.

TIG, through its Energy Advice Service, TEAS SCIO, had been advising and helping Let’s Talk Energy Fund clients to apply for replacement white goods along with giving essential energy advice. LTEF clients had applications accepted through the scheme only to be informed white goods could not be delivered to the Western Isles.

Once aware, TIG raised the issue with islands MP Angus Brendan MacNeil, who in turn contacted Charis Grants and they confirmed that, having worked with OFGEM and their suppliers, the delivery issue has been resolved and they are now in the process of contacting all of their impacted customers to arrange delivery dates.

Stewart Wilson, Chief Executive of Tighean Innse Gall said: “My team work very hard to secure the best outcomes for our clients. TIG provides energy advice and targeted support through additional schemes as well as helping clients to switch to cheaper tariffs: we also make referrals to heating and insulation schemes along with referrals for food parcels.

“All these collectively provide essential savings and can mean, with our support, people can afford to heat and eat, with all the provision there to do so.

“I thank OFGEM, Let’s Talk, and suppliers for working through the issues and, of course, Mr MacNeil our MP for raising it on our behalf, with these authorities.”

Angus Brendan MacNeil MP said: “Tighean Innse Gall work very hard to assist island residents to make improvements to homes so they are more comfortable and cost effective.

“Local residents were being advised to apply to the scheme to receive energy efficient white goods but unfortunately an issue arose regarding delivery to the islands.

“I contacted Charis Grants who administer the Scheme and I am very pleased to hear that they have identified the problem and will now deliver white goods to people in the islands free of charge.

“This is good news for those who were successful in their applications and will now have their white goods delivered, hopefully in time for Christmas.”

One of TIG’s clients commented: “TIG were very helpful. They kept me constantly informed of what was happening and I’m delighted that I am now getting my appliance because I’m not able to afford to go out and buy one.

“A big thank you to everyone at TIG who I know I can rely on and make contact with at any point to help me when I need it.”