Energy costs make heating the last resort for over-55s

PLUMMETING temperatures and rising energy prices will combine to hit the older generation this week.

With the Beast from the East set to plunge parts of the UK below zero degrees spiralling heating costs will leave many Britons shivering inside cold homes.

Yesterday the NHS issued health warnings as Arctic temperatures sweep across the UK.

A survey found that the over-55 age group is the most likely to use heating as a last resort, with 22 per cent saying they do not like turning up the thermostat.

The figure compares with just 15 per cent of 18-to 24-year-olds who will not put the central heating on because they want to save money.

The Moneysupermarket.com survey of 2,000 bill-payers found 40 per cent of older Britons add extra layers to stay warm inside, and 39 per cent use hot water bottles and electric blankets to delay turning the heating on.

This generation is also most aware of how much they spend on heating each year – with 38 per cent conscious of their energy outgoings, compared with just 28per cent of 18 to 24-year-olds.

Moneysupermarket.com consumer affairs expert Kevin Pratt said: “As freezing temperatures grip the UK, many of us can retreat into our homes and turn the heating up, but sadly for some that just isn’t an option.

“The older generation are especially vulnerable, with many struggling to keep the ‘beast’ at bay because they can’t crank up the thermostat. And today’s news of the Government’s forthcoming energy price cap will potentially lull people into a false sense of security on energy costs.

“But consumers not shopping around for the best deal could miss out on hundreds of pounds of savings every year.

“For those worrying about turning up the heating this week, we’d encourage them to shop around as switching can achieve annual savings of over £250 in a matter of minutes.

“Britons who are really concerned about paying their bills should get in contact with their energy provider, as they can look at a repayment plan to help you manage your payments.

“This means you don’t have to risk your comfort, or even your health, by turning off the heating altogether.”