Energy suppliers commitment to social assistance programmes

Commenting on the agreement between the UK's big six energy suppliers to boost collective annual spending on social assistance programmes, Paul Schofield, head of utilities price comparison site moneysupermarket.com, said: "A lifeline has been offered to those people most struggling to meet bill payments.

"Up to 100,000 households could be helped with their fuel bills under the agreement, which boosts collective spending on social assistance programmes by an average of £75 million per year over the next three years. Spending will increase from £50 million to £100 million in this financial year, then £125 million in 2009-10 and £150 million the following year.

"We welcome this news for vulnerable customers struggling to pay for their energy bills. Help is at hand and I advise you to speak to your supplier to see if you qualify."