Of those worried about the rising energy bills and cost of living, (43%) reported to CAS that this was affecting their mental health, and more than half (55%) said the cost of their bills impacted their ability to enjoy life.

The charity’s social justice policy team spoke to people in Leith recently about how their energy costs have impacted them and to raise awareness of the help the local Citizens Advice Bureau can provide.

Helena*, a resident of Leith, said: “Sometimes I have my grandson with me… he is one years old. So, I have to put the heating on and then I am worried about the price I am going to pay.

“I am all the time controlling the heating and putting jackets on and sweaters on because I am always cold because I don’t want to spend. I am spending now just with gas £100 a month and I am not having showers or baths here because I go to the club.”

Mark* told CAS of the impact his energy costs had on him: “Car’s off the road. That’s probably the main one and not been able to afford to put it through its MOT because we’re spending more on electricity and gas.”

Kate*, an Edinburgh resident who had recently received help from her local Citizens Advice Bureau, said: “They can refer you to different services that can help you with different things, different ways to get help and aid, like the Scottish Winter Fund and stuff like that. You can apply for all that through them.

“They’re very compassionate and caring and they don’t judge you at all for being in the position you’re in. Like, they just want to help.”

CAS director of impact David Hilferty said: “Being unable to afford energy bills is devastating for thousands across Scotland. It’s forcing people into unimaginable circumstances. People are losing sleep, rationing hot water and not switching on the lights or heating, even when it’s cold and dark. This is shameful – people should simply not be living like this.

“And it’s not new. Energy bills have been at sky-high levels for years now, and with the war making things worse it’s a situation that feels never-ending. Our energy market is completely broken and unable to cope with it, and of course it’s all happening in the context of the wider cost of living crisis.

“We want people who are struggling with their energy costs to know they can contact their local Citizens Advice Bureau for free, confidential and impartial advice.”

*Names changed to protect their identities