A TAX relief scheme for people who are working from home may not be enough to cover the extra costs, a councillor has warned.

Natalie Don, who represents Bishopton, Bridge of Weir and Langbank, has called for a review of the financial support designed to cover the increased winter energy costs of those on low incomes and working at home as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.

According to a recent study by Energy Helpline, the average household energy bill could climb by over £100 this winter for those working from home five days a week.

However, Citizens Advice Scotland has said the current tax relief available could see basic rate taxpayers only able to claim £62 per year.

Councillor Don told The Gazette: “I am concerned that this tax relief will not help offset the bill shock​s many low-income households are set to face.

“People on lower incomes might only just be able to pay for their household expenses at the moment and an energy bill increase could tip them over into fuel debt.

“Basically, the current tax relief available is nowhere near enough for those on low incomes.

“With the situation unlikely to improve anytime soon, I’m supporting the call for the Chancellor to review the relief available and increase it for those on low incomes as we move into winter and the next year.”

Citizens Advice Scotland is encouraging those eligible to apply for the tax relief to do so but is also calling on the Chancellor to review the support available.

A spokeswoman said: “Tax relief is available for those who have been working from home over the last six months who might start to see energy bills spike as temperatures drop.

“You can apply now for tax relief in this tax year, even if you do not know how much longer you will be working from home. HMRC will then update your tax code to apply the tax relief for the whole of this tax year, even if you go back to your workplace before April 6, 2021.”