Heating your home can come with increasing energy bills, during Big Energy Saving Week get to grips with your energy to stay financially stable and in control.
Before we can rejoice at the return of summer, heating our homes is an expense that needs to be added to the budget. However, paying for energy can become a daunting prospect when bills slowly start to creep up.
SAVE BIG
The Big Energy Saving Week is an annual campaign created by Citizens Advice and the Energy Saving Trust, in close collaboration with the Department of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, to ensure everyone in the community is financially supported when it comes to paying their energy bills.
Everyday actions can see people not only saving money, but also save the environment whilst saving energy.
MANAGEMENT
Comparing your gas and electricity prices is the first step in managing your monthly output.
If you find you’re paying too much money then it’s a good idea to switch providers. Many providers are now going green – in a bid to help the environment – and an account can be opened online or over the phone with no contract. Getting into a contract can see you paying more money over time, gradually, with energy providers known as ‘the big six’ most likely to overcharge customers.
Websites including uSwitch and UK Power can help you switch. If you find you’re struggling to pay your bills, then contact your supplier directly to discuss payments – your supplier must assist you in this case.
BENEFITS
In some cases, your disability may open the doors to government funding, benefits or grants. The Warm Home Discount Scheme, for those living in England, could see you getting £140 off your electricity bill. From September to March, the discount is automatically added to your bill rather than being paid to you directly.
In Scotland, Home Energy Scotland has funding available to ensure your home is warm, and operates efficiently. The website includes a funding finder tool to ensure you are directed to the right grant, discount or funding to meet your needs. For more information call 0808 808 2282.
The Fuel Poverty Programme, called Nest (nest.gov.wales/en/), operates in Wales to help reduce energy bills. In some cases, people living with a underlying health condition including dementia, could be eligible for free home energy efficiency improvements. Learn more by calling the team on 0808 808 2244, or request a call back.
Help is always on hand to ensure you can manage your energy payments, and Big Energy Saving Week is the perfect time to get a hold of your gas and electricity spending.
Financial advice and guidance is available from Citizens Advice and the Energy Saving Trust.