Heat in Buildings Bill consultation: equalities impact assessment

6. Stage 1: Results of framing exercise

6.1 The framing exercise raised a number of points:

• The proposals set out in the Consultation could impact on a high percentage of Scotland’s population, especially older people, disabled people or those with a long term health condition where our evidence shows us that that these groups may spend more prolonged periods at home and have a higher likelihood of experiencing fuel poverty.
• Heat decarbonisation can bring benefits to households and businesses, but communications in relation to it must be accessible to ensure that all can understand the objectives. A wide variety of communication media should be used to engage groups of different ages and income, some of whom may not be familiar with the internet or have limited access.
• Those on lower incomes are at risk of being unable to afford home EE improvements or clean heating. Groups that may be at particular risk of this levels include disabled people and those from minority ethnic backgrounds.