Advice Direct Scotland (ADS) is working with Scottish Government on a new scheme designed to support families struggling with heating costs, particularly those using oil or liquid petroleum gas (LPG) systems (which can be common in rural areas).

From Wednesday 1 April 2026, people can apply for up to £300 via the Emergency Heating Oil Scheme. Payments will be made directly to suppliers, where possible, to help qualifying households to place an order.

The scheme, which is administered by Advice Direct Scotland, is envisaged to run for up to six months, with two opportunities to apply during that period. It will focus on low income households (including those in receipt of means-tested social security), but will also be open to applications from other people who have unavoidable additional heating needs, and may face hardship, including people with disabilities or those at risk of self-rationing fuel.

Housing Secretary Màiri McAllan spoke about the scheme during its launch, a response to the sudden rise in heating oil and LPG prices due to global events. (Full quote available at the link below.)

Further information is available via the Scottish Government announcement (linked for your convenience).

To apply, or for further information, please visit ADS’ Home Heating Advice website.