Recent energy price rises, along with other rising costs and falling incomes, have left many people struggling to pay their energy bills. With the extra cost of winter heating bills ahead we’re worried many more people may go into debt to their energy supplier. This can be a daunting reality, with many consumers unaware of their rights and what their next steps should be. If you are worried about not being able to pay your energy bill you should know that your supplier has to help you to work out an affordable way to pay back the money you owe.

The following five tips from our ‘Plug the debt’ campaign can help.

What to do if you fall behind with your energy bill: ●● Contact your energy firm as soon as you realise you might have trouble paying your bill – debts will be harder to pay off if they grow. ●● Tell your supplier what you can afford to pay – they have to take this into account in agreeing your repayments. ●● Ask your energy company, your local advice centre or the Home Heat Helpline 0800 33 66 99 to find out about other free energy help available. ●● Even if you are in debt you may be able to switch to a cheaper deal with your current supplier, especially if you pay by cash, cheque or pre-payment meter. ●● Find out if you are missing out on financial help that could make it easier to pay your bills by contacting your local advice centre (follow this link to find your local centre: AdviceSheffield).

Your advice centre can offer impartial information, advice and help if you are struggling with your energy bills. Advisers may be able to help you to find out: ●● whether you qualify for a discount off your bill or free insulation to help stop your home leaking heat and cut your bills ●● if you are missing out on extra financial helpFurther independent advice on energy issues is available from Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06 or 01604 640 371. To find out more about the plug the debt campaign and other energy help available visit Consumer Focus’ website - www.consumerfocus.org.uk/plugthedebt

As part of our ongoing social policy work we are interested in hearing from people who have applied for or are in the process of applying for Self Directed Support. We would like to know about your views and experiences.

These could include:

• The claiming process including information and help given to complete the support plan.
• The amount of time you have waited or been waiting for a response or for action to be taken
• How satisfied you were with the support you received and the way in which it was administered and organised
• How flexible the system has been in adjusting to changes in your support needs.

Please email us we would be very interested to hear about these and any other experiences around Self Directed Support you want to put forward. (Added 03/04/2012)