Citizens Advice Scotland has raised concerns regarding the ongoing issue of fuel poverty, emphasizing that it affects individuals throughout the entire year, not just during winter months. Between April and June, the charity received inquiries from over 4,000 individuals in Scotland seeking advice related to energy bills.
David Hilferty, the director of impact at Citizens Advice Scotland, noted that the average energy debt has doubled over the past five years, now reaching approximately £2,500. He highlighted that rising energy costs would further exacerbate the financial struggles of those already facing difficulties in managing their energy bills. Upcoming changes announced by energy regulator Ofgem indicate a 2% increase in gas and electricity prices for millions of UK households, translating to an additional £35 a year for those using a typical amount of energy.
The new price cap, effective from early October, sets the annual cost for a household at £1,755. This situation raises questions about how households are expected to manage these escalating costs, especially as Hilferty described the circumstances as leading to situations where consumers are accruing debt merely to maintain basic living conditions.
UK Energy Minister Michael Shanks acknowledged the price rise as a significant concern for consumers, indicating that the government plans to take urgent actions to support vulnerable families. This includes expanding a warm home discount to an additional 2.7 million households and reviewing the energy system to enhance customer protections.
Advice Direct Scotland, which provides free support and information about energy issues, encourages consumers to monitor their energy usage closely and seek help if needed. They advise individuals to review their bills, assess payment options, and ensure their smart meters function correctly, reinforcing that assistance is available for those in need.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c2kz7l1yk78o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss