My office has received many enquiries over the last week about the new fire alarm law change, with many older constituents deeply worried, either because they can’t afford the new alarms or because they don’t know where to get the alarms, if they can get any help, can’t find a supplier or anyone fitting them.
When they phone the Care and Repair service they cannot get an answer, some have told me they have phoned the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and been told they do not do it.
I have written to the Scottish Government seeking clarity over this whole shambolic situation.
We are now hearing reports that Scottish Government funding to help low income, older and disabled homeowners with installation has “run out” in some parts of the country. This is even more worrying given very few people have been able to access help or advice.
As such I am asking the Government if they are planning to increase the amount of funding to Care and Repair in order to ensure that financial support is available to those who need it.“I am also asking them, given the lack of information, if they have any plans to review the roll-out and provide more advice as to where people, particularly older people, can get advice and support.
I appreciate that the Government has said it will take a “light-touch” approach to enforcement, but this does not alleviate the worries that many people are experiencing across Scotland trying to obey the new rules, nor does it address the worries they have around their homes being insured.
The Scottish Government need to sort this mess out as quickly as possible, particularly given how much undue stress this is causing to people up and down the country.
See my letter to the Scottish Government below:
Alex-Rowley-MSP-Letter-to-CabSec-SJHLG-Fire-Alarms-25.01.22-
