Energy tips for the elderly
According to the latest figures from the Office for National Statistics, there were an estimated 36,700 excess winter deaths in England and Wales in 2008/09, an increase of 49% on the previous year and the greatest number occurred in people aged over 85.
Gareth Kloet, Head of Utilities at Confused.com comments; I am shocked and saddened to see such a terribly high number of elderly Britons dying from the cold. Whilst there is a huge amount of pressure on energy providers to reduce the cost of energy, it's unlikely that prices are going to fall before the cold weather sets in, if at all. There are nevertheless already measures in place to help the elderly keep warmer this winter and it's vital to take advantage of them.
Join up to the Priority Services Register or your suppliers alternative version
All major energy suppliers are obliged to provide a range of free services to certain customers through the Priority Service Register (PSR). This is designed to ensure that the vulnerable can be easily identified and assisted where possible - for example by providing alternative heating in case of planned interruption to your energy supply. Contact your energy supplier to find out if you're eligible.
Take advantage of free loft and cavity wall insulation
Any household that has a resident aged 70 or over, will qualify for a 100% grant for loft and cavity wall insulation. When correctly installed, insulation will keep your home cosier in the winter and therefore make it cheaper to heat.
Check whether you fall into the fuel poverty category
If you believe that you spend 10% or more of your annual income on energy bills, it's likely that you are eligible for additional assistance from your energy supplier; they should offer you a tariff equivalent to that of their cheapest.
Set up a direct debit if possible
Setting up a direct debit can reduce energy costs by 10% or more - even if the tariff remains unchanged. Paying in this way will also help spread the cost of winter bills over the year.
Engage with your provider
Energy providers will act responsibly if they are contacted. If anyone is struggling to pay their bills their provider will offer energy efficiency advice, check whether they have a cheaper tariff available, or perhaps help with spreading the winter payments over the year, even if the payment is not by direct debit. Pensioners should never put themselves at risk of the cold weather, as help is available if it is sought.