SEEK OUT GRANTS AND NEGOTIATE A PAYMENT PLAN AS ENERGY BILLS SOAR

THERE are some measures that small businesses can take to help mitigate against the soaring cost of energy:

⚫ CONTACT your supplier. You might be able to agree on a payment plan and access hardship funds. Help is available from Citizens Advice on 0808 223 1133.

⚫ CHECK what business finance schemes and grants are available from the Government at gov.uk/ business-finance-support or your energy supplier.

⚫ SEE if you can cut costs by switching your energy business contract – or ask about installing a smart meter to monitor usage.

⚫ REDUCE your energy usage at your workplace if you can – turn off lights and office equipment when they are not needed. More tips are available from the Energy Saving Trust.

⚫ GET debt and budget advice from Business Debtline at businessdebtline.org.