Many of us are finding everyday costs are higher than ever before and for many of us this will be a real challenge over the winter period particularly in the costs of heating our homes. If you’re struggling to afford your gas and electricity bills, contact your supplier to discuss ways to pay what you owe them. Your supplier has to help you come to a solution. You should try to negotiate a deal that works for both of you. If you don’t try to negotiate with your supplier, they might threaten to disconnect you. Citizens Advice have information on what to do it you are struggling to pay your energy bills.
Ofgem (which is the energy regulator for the UK) in partnership with Citizens Advice Scotland and Energy UK has published very comprehensive information to help you understand more about the current energy crisis, offering information and resources. It includes information on:
- What financial support is available
- What non-financial support is available
- Making your home warmer
- Understanding your bill
- What are my rights?
- If you are a tenant
- If you are in debt
- Gas safety
- Why are energy prices going up
- What is meter reading day?
Energy saving is not a one size fits all system, each home and the installed heating and electrical systems are different. Keeping our homes warm, illuminated, and ensuring there is sufficient hot water is vital to our health, safety and wellbeing, particularly in the winter months, however the good news is that through a few simple changes, most homes can save on their energy bills, while still staying cosy.
NHS Lothian has produced very comprehensive Guidance on Household Energy Conservation & Reduction to support staff and patients during the Energy Crisis
There are a number of things that you can explore to help reduce what you are paying.
