The scheme – which is now open for applications – is aiming to provide much-needed funds directly to low-income households to help with their energy bills.

The payment scheme is the next phase of the council’s wide-ranging ‘Energy Smart’ programme, introduced to provide a variety of supports to households struggling with soaring energy prices and inflation.

North Ayrshire Council leader Marie Burns said: “No-one will be unaffected by the escalating cost of energy and shopping bills and it’s our top priority to support people however we can.

“The new ‘Energy Smart: Emergency Response’ grant scheme is a direct payment which will ensure the money goes to those who need it most and as quickly as possible.

“The money should make an immediate difference to families worried about escalating fuel costs over winter.”

In an effort to make the application process as simple as possible, people can either apply online or be supported through the application over the phone.

You can call 01294 310000 or visit the council website at www.north-ayrshire.gov.uk/CostOfLiving to learn more.

While the fund is aimed primarily at households with low income, there are other supports available and people are encouraged to get in contact to see what help is available to you.

Council staff will also be reaching out into communities to make people aware of the supports on offer. This includes promoting the new Energy Smart programme at food banks and other touchpoints, and council staff highlighting the scheme when visiting vulnerable people in their homes as part of the delivery of other services.

Councillor Tony Gurney, cabinet member for Economy and Climate Change, added: “This is a further phase of a £2 million package of measures we are introducing to help people quickly and practically.

“In addition to the Emergency Response scheme, as part of Energy Smart we will be delivering energy efficiency measures in homes – initially this will be focused on loft and cavity insulation - to provide long-term cost savings. We are encouraging anyone interested in receiving such measures to get in touch with us so that we can see if you are eligible and then arrange installation.

“We announced last month our partnership with the Energy Agency and Home Energy Scotland, where specially-trained advisors are standing by to provide support and practical, impartial advice to anyone looking to reduce their energy bills.”