Advisors help customers set up low-cost payments and, depending on circumstances, work with energy companies to write-off long-term debt.

The service helped almost 5300 customers of Wheatley – which includes GHA, DGHP, Dunedin Canmore, Loretto, WLHP and Lowther – save £625,000 in the past year.

GHA tenant Margaret Gourlay, 78, from Milton, was full of praise for the service.

She said: “The fuel advisors are brilliant. They help in every way they can. I had a problem with a bill and my fuel advisor Michelle got in touch with the energy company to sort it out.

“She kept me updated and checked how I was getting on. She was really great. I’d give her 10 out of 10. I’d advise any tenant to get in touch with their fuel advisor. They can really help.”

Fuel bills are rising for millions of households across the UK – with further significant increases expected next year.

Olga Clayton, Wheatley’s director of housing and care, added: “Fuel poverty is a real concern for our tenants, despite our best efforts to help them reduce bills and keep their homes warm.

“Our fuel advisors offer practical help and guidance to save on energy bills and use energy more efficiently, and can also help customers set up low-cost payments.

“The fuel advice team is just one of a wide range of support services we have available for tenants who are worried about money, putting food on the table or getting out of debt.”