Consumer Information
Information Guides
Consumer Information:Frequently Asked Questions
Through our helpline we receive enquiries spanning a wide range of different topics. Here is a selection of those most asked:
Can I get a reduction of Vehicle Excise Duty?
If you are disabled you may be entitled to a reduction or exemption of vehicle tax. The vehicle must be registered in your name or a specific driver’s name and must only be used for your personal needs.
You can apply for exemption if you get the:
- higher rate mobility component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Enhanced rate mobility component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- enhanced rate mobility component of Adult Disability Payment – mygov.scot
- War Pensioner’s Mobility Supplement
- Armed Forces Independence Payment
You can get a 50% reduction in vehicle tax if you get the Personal Independence Payment or Adult Disability Payment standard rate mobility component Adult Disability Payment – mygov.scot
You can find out more here Vehicles exempt from vehicle tax – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
What help is there with energy costs?
Energy costs used to be a worry in winter but now bills can be a challenge all year round.
The good news is there are different grants and schemes available to help people improve the heating in their homes and keep heating costs down.
Home Energy Scotland is a free energy advice service funded by the Scottish Government to help people save money and keep their homes warmer. They offer simple energy saving tips, and know about funding schemes and how to access them.
Their website Home Energy Scotland offers help with finding funding, reducing your bills, making your home warmer and living a greener life. You can call them on 0808 808 2282
Consumer Information:Search for Local Organisations
Our quick search tool can connect you to over 3000 service providers, suppliers and organisations supporting people across Scotland. To find support near you, simply enter your search term and select your local authority.
| Organisation | Description |
|---|---|
| Edinburgh Garden Partners | We are a community organisation active across Edinburgh. We aim to strengthen communities by creating relationships between people who want a space to grow and those who have garden space to share. We connect people of different ages, abilities, and ba… |
| Edinburgh Gorgie Debt Advice Service | Services provided: This is a free, confidential and impartial service provided by trained debt advisors. We work with our clients and their Creditors to agree a manageable and realistic debt management plan. We can offer advice on formal debt solutions… |
| Edinburgh Headway Group | Rehabilitation services which support adults with acquired brain injuries and their carers |
| Edinburgh Macmillan Welfare Rights Partnership | Services provided: Free and confidential benefits advice service for people living with or affected by cancer. The service is also open to the families and carer’s of those affected by cancer. The Advice Shop, 249 High Street, Edinburgh, Tel: 0131 200… |
| Edinburgh North West Foodbank | Providing food parcels for those in need in the Edindburgh North West area |
| Edinburgh Trusted Trader | The official City of Edinburgh Council Trusted Trader scheme that is fully supported by Police Scotland |
| Edinburgh Young Carers | Support for young people caring for someone at home |
| edspace – Edinburgh Mental Health Information | Edinburgh’s online source of mental health and wellbeing information |
| ELAS (Edinburgh and Lothian Asperger Society) | Aims: ELAS is an independent social and mutual support group for adults over 16 with diagnosed or believed Asperger Syndrome or Autistic Spectrum condition. Based in Edinburgh but folks from any distance are welcome. It meets weekly in both modes: by v… |
| Elderly Accommodation Counsel | Information & advice for elderly people seeking information about accommodation or care support |
