Energy Prices Puts Pressure On Families
26 October 2012, 06:00
People in the East of England are being told to take immediate action after many of the UK’s energy companies increased the price of fuel last week.
Citizen Advice are asking families to “check, switch and insulate” to make sure that they are making the biggest possible saving.
It’s after it was revealed that 3 in 4 people are hoping for a mild winter so they can have the heating on less - as 38% say they are worried they won’t be able to afford their next energy bill.
Citizen Advice Bureaux in the East helped clients with over 10,300 fuel debt problems in the last 12 months.
Lynne Rawlings, Manager of the Citizens Advice Bureau in Newmarket said:
“Energy prices are set to rise over the next few years so the sensible way forward is to look at your usage and look at your tariff and insulate your home as much as you possibly can.
“My advice is to stay on top of it and don’t let it get out of hand.”
This week is the Big Energy Saving Week set up by the largest six energy companies.
To help the public save money Citizens Advice is offering ways in which to reduce energy consumption.
They include:
- Check to see whether you are paying for the best possible deal from your energy supplier.
- Make sure you are getting all the financial help you are eligible for. Up to £20 billion of benefits went unclaimed in 2011.
- Switch to a better deal with a new supplier, particularly if you have never switched before.
- Insulating the loft and cavity walls of your home is a great way to save money on your heating bills. Many energy companies offer this free or at a reduced price.
For more information on ways to save on energy consumption visit: www.citizensadvice.org.uk