The Money Matters Advice Service (MMAS) won the Outstanding Contribution to Tackling Fuel Poverty (Organisation) at Energy Action Scotland’s Fuel Poverty Awards 2025.

Between 2022-25, the team operated a 'Cash First, Dignity Always' model that ensured no household was left without heat, light, or food—providing same-day support while connecting residents to longer-term financial help through integrated welfare rights, money, and energy advice.

Chair of the council’s Finance and Corporate Resources Committee, Councillor Lesley McDonald, said: “Huge congratulations to everyone involved with MMAS for this award.

“The team have delivered an exceptional level of crisis response and helped to maximise the income of residents across South Lanarkshire.

“Working on the frontline of the cost-of-living crisis, they have supported tens of thousands of residents with rapid, person-centred help combining compassion with practical action.”

This included 8,895 Cash First payments issued between 2023–2025, 6,471 food bank referrals processed, 17,060 fuel bank referrals made, 82,244 calls handled, 13,426 digital referrals received and 6,283 Financial Wellbeing Support Fund cases processed, distributing over £1.57 million in emergency payments (2022–23).

Councillor McDonald added: “Each of these interventions represented a household supported in crisis—families who could heat their homes, buy food, or manage an unexpected bill.

“The team consistently delivered same-day responses for over 95% of clients, ensuring no one in crisis was left without support overnight.”

MMAS work in partnership with Scottish Gas Networks, the Fuel Bank Foundation and local Citizens Advice Bureaux, to deliver a joined-up public service built on compassion, efficiency, and collaboration.