Publications

We work on the issues that matter to our network’s clients and our member CAB. Our focus is on delivering advocacy drawn from the experience and insights of the Scottish Citizens Advice network, which is rooted in communities across the country. 

Complex metering arrangements are found in significant numbers across both the Scottish electricity network distribution licence areas. Our advocacy on behalf of consumers in Scotland with non-E7 restricted meters is informed by the evidence of our network, where consumer detriment and problems with market access are commonly reported. CAS strongly supports the extension of SLC22G, but our response makes further recommendations to Ofgem which we believe require consideration if the extended market intervention is to be effective. 

In 2019, Citizens Advice Scotland (CAS) commissioned research to ascertain consumers’ views on and experiences of the gas and electricity distribution networks in Scotland, and their priorities for future distribution network investment. We also explored the attitudes of consumers in Scotland towards some of the potential changes in electricity use that may be required as the energy system evolves to support Scottish and UK Government climate change targets, and consumers' understanding and opinions of some of the technologies that are envisaged to aid the energy transition. In addition, we explored consumers’ views on a potential increase in the electrification of heat in Scotland, and their enthusiasm for and opinions of future opportunities to provide flexibility to their electricity distribution network operator.

This report summarises the results of our research and considers how Scotland’s gas and electricity distribution networks might be able to help redefine consumers’ relationship with the energy system in support of Scottish and UK Government climate change policies. It is published alongside a summary of its key findings and the final report compiled by our research partner, Accent.

In early 2020, Citizens Advice Scotland (CAS) commissioned Ipsos MORI to undertake exploratory research on the impact of Brexit on individuals, businesses and communities across Scotland. The findings of this research will assist CAS in understanding the future potential advice and support needs of Scottish communities

Citizens Advice Scotland (CAS) welcomes the Bill, which provides an opportunity to make minor amendments to address issues which have been identified since the passage of the Social Security (Scotland) Act 2018, including making provision for the introduction of the Scottish Child Payment. CAS welcomes the amendments brought at Stage 2, which cover a number of further areas which CAS and others identified in evidence at Stage 1.

Earlier this year CAS undertook to research how accountable public services in Scotland are. This report presents the findings of that work. 

A fundamental review of disability assistance in Scotland must be initiated by the Scottish Government during the next parliament, according to a coalition of organisations campaigning for a long-term improvements to social security for disabled people. 

Following the devolution of powers over disability and ill-health benefits to the Scottish Government, the Scottish Campaign on Rights to Social Security, has launched its long-term vision for disability assistance in Scotland.