Fuel Poverty: Eating or Heating?

Welcome

Carol Hopkinson - Money Matters Adviser, CHS Group

Lorraine Payne - Financial Education Manager,CAB Cambridge

Today’s workshop

Energy information to help you help your clients:

• Fuel Poverty

• Ice Breaker

• Complaints

• Grants

• Sharing knowledge and experiences through case studies.

• Summary

Fuel Poverty

Definition

10% of income, numbers rising

Causes

Personal – low income, disabilities/health, not using controls, homes not energy efficient

Technical – poor housing, lack of insulation, inadequate heating causing high energy use

Energy costs - paying too much for energy, pre payment meters, fuel debts.

Health

Lack of heat increases risks - elderly, sick, lone parents. Heart condition, hypothermia, breathing, rheumatism

Before switching consider

1. Online, Direct Debit, Standard quarterly, Prepayment, Fuel Direct

2. Would have to pay any outstanding bills older than 28 days

3. Consider fixed prices - maybe a penalty to move during contract

4. Token /card meter can switch with a £500 debt

5. Look into welfare benefits e.g. AA, PIP, tax credits, get a benefit check done through CAB or TURN2US

6. Oil clubs through local council?

7. No change in supply, no interruptions, tenants pay the bill.

Complaints

1. Look on-line or ask supplier for their complaints procedure – write or phone to complain. Always keep a log.

2. Supplier – 8 weeks to respond 3. CAB - 08454 040505

4. Energy Ombudsman 0330 440 1624 – compensation up to £5K.

Grants

CCCLAS – replaced Community Care Grants, apply via an authorised agent. Can help with washing machines, cookers, fridge freezers, microwaves, beds, clothes vouchers, food hampers……

British Gas Trust Fund – anyone ! Help with fuel bills, further assistance payments

N. Power – own customers only energy bills

EDF Trust – EDF customers only. Help with energy debts and white goods occasionally.

Water Company Assistance Fund – check local suppliers web site

And finally ………

Any questions?

Feedback forms

Information packs

Thank you for joining us!