Over 2 million households will be struggling to pay their fuel bills in the UK this coming winter.
Some 12.4% of households faced heating bills that pushed them below the poverty line last winter which is a rise from 2015. Levels of fuel poverty, measured by people facing high bills and on low incomes, were highest in the private rented sector where more than 20% of households faced an average shortfall of £417 to pay their bills. Among various kinds of household, the highest prevalence of fuel poverty was for single parents with dependent children, with almost 25% in difficulties.
People living in uninsulated, solid-wall homes and older buildings were more likely to face fuel poverty, while those in newer and well-insulated homes were least likely to be struggling. One of the best ways to reduce fuel bills is to install external wall insulation on uninsulated solid wall properties.
Insulating the home is one tangible way to combat these financial fears and in certain circumstances, it can be installed free or be heavily subsidised. Make sure you are not caught out this winter just check on this site to see if you are entitled to any assistance. What’s to lose?
In 2016, the average fuel poverty gap between what people could afford to pay and what they needed to heat their homes to a decent level was estimated at £400 a slight increase on the previous year.
Pressure on the household budget is bound to be great this year as energy suppliers warn of further increases to come. The pound remains on a low ebb and the promise of higher mortgage interest rates means households need to save every pound they can, making the home more energy efficient will help a great deal.
Need some help?
Do check out on site if you are entitled to any assistance towards making your home more environmentally friendly. This in turn will save you and your family a great deal of money each year.