Millions of Brits face energy debts in winter lockdown, as charities warn of fuel poverty crisis

MILLIONS of Brits face falling into debt over energy costs from the winter lockdown, charities have warned.

Families already struggling are likely to be hardest hit because of the covid restrictions, with kids at home because of school closures and falling temperatures.

1

Charities are calling on the government to give more support to those struggling, the Mirror reports.

Nearly 4million households in England were classed as being in energy debt before the coronavirus crisis, figures from the End Fuel Poverty Coalition show.

Millions more are likely to fall into debt over bills for gas and electric, with an estimated 7million expected to struggle paying their energy bills this winter because of the pandemic, according to Citizens Advice.

Adam Scorer, Chief Executive of campaigning charity National Energy Action (NEA), told the newspaper: “Some parents are so desperate they are debating sending their kids to their unvaccinated grandparents home for a bit of warmth.”

Caroline Abrahams, charity director at Age UK, said: “With everyone spending longer at home and more on heating there is a real worry that older people will be running up debts or start rationing their use.”

Research by the NEA found that families at home in lockdown living in cold and leaky properties pay more a month on energy bills compared to those living in homes that are well insulated.

Bills cost £124 per month, on average, for those without insulation versus £76 for those with it – a difference of £49.

According to Save the Children more than a quarter of families claiming Universal Credit and Child Tax Credit are already cutting back on heating and electricity.

The charity estimates that almost two-thirds have gone into debt, with some having to borrow money buy winter coats for their children.

A government spokesperson told the Mirror: “We are committed to ensuring nobody goes cold in their own home.”

Those struggling with food and bills can now get money and other support from their local council and the Winter Covid Grant Scheme.

It’s one of many schemes out there which could help cover the cost of energy bills this winter – here are more which could save you more than £1,000.

ONE-OFF

How can I get £1,000 one-off Universal Credit payment?

CASH ONLY

Morrisons shoppers unable to pay for food with card due to payment issues

SNOW WAY

How to get help paying your energy bills as snow hits

URGENT RECALL

Warning issued over Sainsbury’s, Asda & Co-op seafood due to salmonella fears

HELPING HAND

Only days left to claim the third self-employment grant worth £7,500

EXTRA CREDIT

Universal Credit ‘tax on workers’ should be cut so Brits can get back to work

Nearly half a million households will soon see their energy bills jump by an average of £171 a year unless they switch now.

Anyone on Universal Credit can get extra discounts over winter to help them through.

From drapes to bubble wrap — keep your home warm on the cheap with our top tips.

This post first appeared on thesun.co.uk