Age UK Statement on Energy Price Rises

With many reports of potential energy shortages and price rises currently circulating in the press, Age UK's Charity Director Caroline Abrahams has released a statement which can be read in full below.

"Lots of older people will have seen the reports about the possibility of energy shortages and price hikes coming soon and will be extremely anxious as a result. It's hard enough for many to keep warm through the winter as it is, but now it seems this annual challenge could become tougher still.

“We urge older people not to be overly concerned at this stage, pending more information from Government, which we hope will be published very soon. In the meantime, if you are having problems paying your energy bills, or repaying a debt, it is the duty of your energy company to help you so it's worth getting in touch with them, though at present their phone lines are likely to be busy. Any older person is also welcome to call the Age UK advice line. Hopefully we can assist you, for example by checking you are receiving all the financial help to which you are entitled.

“If these reports about soaring energy bills turn out to be true Age UK will certainly be calling on the Government to take action so that a problem in the energy sector doesn’t translate into a tragedy for millions of older people who can’t keep their homes adequately warm.”

Caroline Abrahams, Charity Director, Age UK

Older people and their families looking for advice can call Age UK's free national advice line on 0800 169 65 65 (lines are open every day, 8am – 7pm).