Almost half of older households in North Ayrshire are living in fuel poverty, according to statistics.

Research from Age Scotland and ScotInform surveyed more than 1,100 over 50s from every local authority in Scotland.

The study was funded by the Scottish Government.

The charity’s largest national housing survey of older people identified that 39 per cent of over 65s are living in fuel poverty in 2023.

Figures found that 46 per cent of North Ayrshire elderly North Ayrshire surveyed were living in fuel poverty.

Over a quarter of older households also thought their current home was not very suitable or not at all suitable for their needs.

Adding to this, 66 per cent of older households didn’t know or didn’t think their home would be suitable in 10 years.

Household costs, including energy bills, lack of accessibility within the home, distance from friends and family and a decline in health were all given as reasons why older people feel like they might need to move.

The Scottish Government's housing minister, Paul McLennan, said: "I welcome the Age Scotland National Housing Survey.

"The Scottish Government recognises the issues raised and is working to improve them.

"Our priority is to do everything we can to help those worst affected by high energy bills which is why we tripled the Fuel Insecurity Fund from £10 million to £30 million.

“We plan to introduce a new Scottish Accessible Homes Standard and launched a consultation on June 29, which will seek views from stakeholders including older people on how we can future proof new homes by building in accessibility and adaptability from the start.

"This will ensure older people have an increased range of housing options and reduce the need to make costly changes to homes as their needs change.

“We are also taking forward a review of the current housing adaptations system, due to conclude this year.”