LATEST figures show 50 per cent of rural households across Scotland are living in fuel poverty.

Two reports, produced by the Scottish Fuel Poverty Strategic Working Group and Scottish Rural Fuel Poverty Task Force, show that fuel poverty is affecting families across the country, leaving many in the Borders struggling to heat their homes.

The studies, which were released on Monday, contain more than over 100 recommendations to combat the problem and will now be considered in full by Scottish Government ministers.

Scottish Rural Fuel Poverty Task Force chairman Di Alexander said: “Fuel poverty is still affecting far too many rural households (50 per cent) and a major step-change is required if the target of eliminating fuel poverty in both rural and urban Scotland, within a clearly defined timescale, is going to be achieved.

“The Task Force’s action plan sets out realistic and practical steps that could and should be taken to deliver this outcome.

“They are based on prioritising the needs of all vulnerable and fuel poor households, with a clear focus on those living in what are predominantly off-gas, rural and remote areas, where heating bills are typically much higher than average.”

And Housing Minister Kevin Stewart says the Government is “committed” to resolving the issue.

He added: “Everyone should be able to heat their home and keep themselves and their families warm, therefore, tackling and eradicating fuel poverty is vital and we must make sure action we are taking is making a difference to those that need it most.

"The advice is clear that the current definition is unhelpful in ensuring support is delivered to those who need it most.

“We are committed to eradicating fuel poverty. Since 2008 over one million energy efficiency measures have been installed in almost one million households across Scotland which has helped make homes warmer and easier to heat.

"We will build on this by investing half a billion pounds over the next four years to continue tackling fuel poverty and improving energy efficiency.

"Over 100 recommendations have been made, many of which are complex and have wider implications that must be considered alongside other policies.

"All of this cannot happen immediately but both reports are a good first step in informing our new fuel poverty strategy and we will respond fully in due course.”