Hundreds of struggling households across Ayrshire have sought help with energy problems in the last year, according to new figures.

Advice Direct Scotland, which operates the national advice service energyadvice.scot, recorded more than 1,000 gas and electricity-related complaints in the three council areas in the 12 months leading up to May.

North Ayrshire ranked ninth in Scotland for the number of disputes, with 477 cases, while there were 373 in South Ayrshire, and 315 in East Ayrshire.

Problems included bills, debts, and disconnections, as soaring energy prices and the cost-of-living crisis squeezed family budgets, the figures show.

Most issues in the areas came around people seeking advaice and information.

However, billing issues accounted for 109 complaints in South and North Ayrshire, with 69 in East Ayrshire.

North Ayrshire had 82 complants relating to debt and disconnections, with 39 of this type in South Ayrshire and 34 in East Ayrshire

Issues around pre-payment meters also led to 29 complaints in North Ayrshire, 14 in South and 26 in East Ayrshire.

In the past year, the charity provided more than 407 pieces of general energy advice and addressed an additional 758 specific concerns across Ayrshire.

Problems relating to standard meters accounted for eight per cent of all cases, while prepayment meters accounted for six per cent.

The findings come amid warnings that households still face high bills, despite regulator Ofgem recently lowering the energy price cap.

Conor Forbes, director of policy with Advice Direct Scotland, said: “These figures highlight the alarming scale of the cost-of-living crisis.

“As the country's national energy advice service, we have witnessed significant demand from individuals in Ayrshire seeking assistance for various issues, including bills, debts, and disconnections.

“It is crucial for people to know that they don't have to face these challenges alone, as a range of support options are available.

“If you find yourself rationing energy or struggling to afford other essentials, reaching out for help is essential.

“Despite the warmer weather, many individuals continue to face financial difficulties, and they should know that assistance is just a phone call away.

“Advice Direct Scotland offers a variety of services to provide free, practical, and impartial advice.

“Our advisors are available to assist with understanding energy bills and can direct individuals to relevant sources of support, ensuring they access all entitled benefits.

“Anyone experiencing difficulties should visit www.energyadvice.scot or call 0808 196 8660 for assistance.”