A charity boss has given his advice to those struggling with their energy bills during the cold snap.
Simon Francis, from the End Fuel Poverty Coalition, says people should first contact their energy provider.
Speaking to Sky News, he says: “All of them have to have schemes in place to help those people, especially the vulnerable.
“It’s not enough. We know it’s not enough. But they do have schemes available, and you should certainly speak to them if you are feeling that your home is getting cold and damp, and you can’t afford to put the heating on.”
What are the other options?
According to Mr Francis there are other support options available, including approaching advice groups.
“Groups like Age UK, people like Citizen’s Advice – they can all help you.
“National Energy Action as well. There is support out there.”
How many people are at risk?
Mr Francis believes “millions” of households in the UK will be struggling with the decision on whether to turn the heating up or on.
He says this been exacerbated by the government’s decision to limit winter fuel payments to pensioners on means-tested benefits.
“Millions of people are suffering in cold, damp homes this winter,” he says.
“They’re having to make really tough choices between heating or eating in many cases.
“And for older people who previously will have had the winter fuel payments but don’t have that any more, the situation is even worse.”
‘All ages’ will struggle
Mr Francis said there is particular concern about the 1.6 million disabled pensioners who’ve lost the payment and those with pre-existing health conditions like lung or heart conditions, “where living in cold, damp conditions actually pose a risk to life”.
“Age UK estimate another 2.5 million pensioners have been forced into poverty as a result of the winter fuel payment cuts,” he added.
“Of course, it affects people of all ages, people with young families will also be feeling the cold and will be struggling to afford the bills, especially given the cost of living crisis that we’ve all been living through for the last few years.”
