The survey of 2,000 adults revealed that more than four in 10 (42%) are fretting about how they’ll manage this winter. Yet, almost of those struggling with their energy bills have never sought help.
As well as not seeking professional advice, many Brits haven’t sought help from family and friends either, with 28% feeling too embarrassed to do so.
However, it’s not just embarrassment that’s stopping Brits asking for help – 36% don’t believe they qualify for support in the first place. With one in five claiming there isn’t enough energy advice available, to be able to understand this better.
The study was commissioned by British Gas as part of its independent charitable trust – British Gas Energy Trust – which has teamed up with the Post Office and eight local charities to offer free, drop-in events at post offices across the UK this winter.
Abi Robins, director of responsible business at British Gas, said: “We know the colder months can be tough on a lot of people and there isn’t always advice readily available.”
“The Post Office Pop-Ups provide help on lots of topics such as budget planning, energy debt advice, help with accessing energy debt write-off grants, and energy efficiency measures.”
(Image: Getty Images)
She added: “Grants, fund money and energy advice services are also available through the Trust with donations from British Gas topping £200m since 2004 as well as providing direct support to struggling customers with matched debt repayments and non-repayable credit.”
When discussing support options, 26% of individuals prefer in-person conversations. However, 35% find it challenging to open up about their energy bill struggles.
Among those who have previously sought help, 35% turned to friends or family, 27% utilized Government schemes, and 24% pursued financial advice or counselling. Nevertheless, once again, the poll highlights that only half found it easy to access this information.
Therefore two thirds of respondents believe that more support programs are needed to help people cope.
Jessica Taplin, chief executive of British Gas Energy Trust, stated: “We know some consumers really want face to face advice, so these pop-ups are just one way we’re helping those already struggling with rising living costs this winter.”
“We offer energy debt write-off grants through our Individuals and Families Fund, open now, and Energy Support Fund, opening 4th of November, to households facing fuel poverty, among other criteria.”
Simon Lambert, commercial and operations director at Post Office, said: “Every week, more than a million energy customers visit our branches to pay bills or top up.”
“These pop-ups held in London, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leicester, Leeds, Newport and Stockport – are a fantastic way to connect customers with the additional support they may need this winter. “