'Record numbers' struggling to pay heating bills

An amber cold health alert will remain in place all weekend across the north-west of England

"Record numbers" of people are getting in touch with Citizens Advice because they are worried they simply cannot afford to keep warm this winter, the charity has said.

Following a week of snow, ice and sub-zero temperatures, an amber cold health alert has been extended for the whole of north-western England until 09:00 GMT on Tuesday.

Energy prices are typically about 50% higher than they were before the pandemic, making it increasingly hard for many people who are also struggling with their other bills.

Caroline Robertson, from Citizens Advice North Lancashire, which has offices in Morecambe and Lancaster, said people were "really, really struggling".

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"We've seen record numbers of clients coming to our offices to talk about the cost of living and paying their energy bills," she told BBC Radio Lancashire.

"January is always one of our busiest months - if not the busiest - and these cold temperatures are not helping.

"About one-in-four people in England are likely to turn their heating off for fear of not being able to pay the bills.

"Right now that's pretty dangerous - that's putting your health at risk because of how cold it is."

Ms Robertson pointed out that "there is some support available if you are concerned about your heating... what we recommend initially is to come and see us and check your eligibility for winter fuel payments, pension credit and the warm home discount."

How can you claim all the help you're entitled to?

If you are struggling financially, then local councils and energy suppliers may be able to offer some assistance.

In fact, energy companies are obliged to help you if you are falling behind with your bills.

Anyone on a pre-payment meter who cannot afford to top it up can ask for a fuel voucher - either directly from their energy company or through their council.

Local authorities may also be able to provide cost-of-living assistance through the household support fund. You can find your local council here.

There are also various other grants and benefits which people may be entitled to claim.

During an extended period of sub-zero temperatures, people living in affected areas can claim Cold Weather Payments - click this link to find out more.

Citzens Advice offers to help people navigate the system and flag up different sources of financial support.

Grants may also be available for longer-term work, ranging from insulating homes to upgrading heating systems.

The charity advises people to take their time while researching such work and be alert to possible scams.

A yellow weather warning for ice is in place across the North West

How much longer is it going to be so cold?

With more bitterly cold weather forecast over the weekend, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has extended its amber alert - meaning the weather is expected to have significant impacts on health - until 09:00 on Tuesday.

Milder air is then expected to spread eastwards across all parts of the region at the start of next week.