Pensioners feel the winter chill
MANY OVER 65s FEAR THEY WILL NEED TO USE SAVINGS OR CREDIT TO KEEP WARM
THE winter chills can put the UK’s older folk under severe financial stress.
More than two-fifths of over 65s are worried cold weather will lead to higher energy costs and more than one in 10 don’t feel they can afford an increase in their bills.
This means 1.3million elderly people nationwide struggle to afford to keep the heat on.
More than a third of elderly people will ration their energy use this winter because of the cost, according to a survey of 2,000 over
65s by a comparison site. Meanwhile, almost 50% of over
65s said that if energy costs went up they would have to dip into their savings or use credit to make ends meet.
Of even greater concern is that more than one in 10 say their health suffers because they limit the amount of heating they use. A fifth said they eat less or buy cheaper food to offset the cost of bills.
Around 88% of the population believe the cost of energy presents a real health threat to older people living in the UK.
Recent Compare the Market research found the average energy bill has risen by more than £240 to £1,625 in 2017, an increase of 14% on last year.
Those on standard variable rate tariffs may be paying even more and almost a fifth of over 65s are on these high tariffs, equating to two million country.
There is also a fatalistic attitude problem, with more than half of Brits believing the proposed price cap would not do anything to reduce their bills.
More than a third did not even realise the government planned to introduce a cap.
If you have seen a sharp rise in your bills over this recent cold snap pensioners across the then it’s time to shop around for a better deal.
And if you are struggling with bills you may be entitled to the Warm Home Discount, which provides direct financial support to fuel-poor customers.
This winter, approximately two million low-income customers will receive an energy rebate worth £140, so contact your supplier to see if you qualify for help.