Support with rising energy costs: guidance and practical tips

Clarion

Following the recent announcement that the energy price cap has increased, many households may be reviewing their energy costs and considering what this means for their budget.

We know that when the cost of essentials like food, housing and transport remains high, even a small increase in energy costs can make everyday budgeting more difficult, creating extra worry and financial stress.

At Clarion Futures, we want you to know that we are here to help. We understand the pressure rising bills can cause, and you don’t have to face these challenges on your own.

Clarion Futures Money is here to help you:

get support to help you manage energy costs,
understand the options available to you,
find guidance if your bills are becoming difficult to manage.

If rising energy costs are worrying you, it’s important not to struggle alone. Getting in touch with Clarion Futures Money can help you explore the support available and get the right help at the right time.

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The Daily Difference

We recently visited one of our Money Guidance Officers, Lianne, at the JobsPlus Mothers Brunch event in Borehamwood, where she talked through what she does and the support available to you through Clarion Futures’ Money.

There are small, everyday steps that can help you manage your energy use and bills. We’ve brought together some simple tips and practical support options to help you feel more confident and in control.

Ways to be energy efficient and save money

Heating: Turning down your thermostat by one degree and set it to only come on when you need it.
Lightbulbs: Use low-energy lightbulbs.
Water: Set your temperature to 60°C and close the door when you have a bath or shower.
Appliances: Don’t leave appliances on standby and buy those with the best energy ratings you can afford. Find out more by visiting Nea.org.uk

Get help with energy bills

Contact your supplier: If you are struggling, they should help you find a solution.
Apply to go on the priority services register: Energy and gas companies can help households in more vulnerable situations. The support available will depend on your supplier and needs. Contact your supplier to find out more.
Don’t miss out: Use our benefits calculator to check if you are getting all the help you are entitled to.
We can help you: If you can’t afford to top up or pay your energy bills, we can help you work out what extra help may be available.
Access to free debt advice: If you are in debt, don’t wait until it’s too late. Get free and impartial debt advice now at stepchange.org or by calling 0800 138 1111.

Keep track of your energy costs

Understanding what you use and spend can help you stay in control. You can do this by reading your meter regularly or getting a smart meter installed.

Reading your meter: Check your actual usage and let your supplier know if you feel an estimated bill is too high. Find out how to read your meter on your supplier’s website or give them a call.
Smart meters: These are free to install and help you keep track of how much energy you are using each day. They measure your energy usage in real time, so bills reflect what you’ve actually used, and you can spot when your energy use increases. By understanding which appliances and habits use the most energy, you can make small changes to lower your bills.
If your bill doesn’t look right, contact your supplier.
Understand your energy bills to keep track of costs

Bills include:

Unit cost: Gas and electricity is sold in kilowatt-hours (kWh) and the price of these varies from supplier to supplier.
Cost of fuel is unit cost x number of units you use: You have control over this part of your bill - the more units you use, the more you pay.
Standing charge: This is a fixed cost that you have to pay every day regardless of how much energy you use.
VAT: This is charged at 5%.
Discounts: You may be eligible for a discount if you get your gas and electricity from the same supplier or if you pay by direct debit. Contact your supplier to find out if they offer discounts.
Add-ons: Some suppliers may charge extra for additional services, such as receiving a paper bill in the post. The energy price cap doesn’t limit your total bill - the more energy you use, the more you’ll pay. It sets a maximum on the price per unit of energy and the daily standing charge.

Other useful websites to visit for information and support include:

Find help with money quickly

Lightning Reach is a free online tool that helps you find financial support if you’re struggling with bills or the cost of living. By creating a quick profile, you can see what grants, benefits, or help you might be able to get from thousands of organisations. The portal shows you support for things like food, clothes, household bills and more, all in one place, and makes applying easier with less paperwork.

Apply now