Cost of Living

The cost of things just keeps going up. I’ve made
cutbacks and, at the moment, I’m just about managing but I’m really worried
about how I’ll cope as it starts getting colder. What should I do?

If you’re finding it hard to stay on top of bills, struggling with rising costs, worried
about energy bills – remember you’re not alone.

South Lakes Citizens Advice is here to help. Simply call
015394 46464 – leave a message and we will call you back
0808 2787 984 – someone will be there to provide advice

You can contact us via our submission page on our website
www.southlakescab.org.uk – we will then contact you.

We can work with you
to make sure you know what money you’ve got coming in and out each
month. Look at what bills need to paid as a priority.
finding out if you’re eligible for any benefits or support with your energy and
living costs.
advising on how to reduce living costs and providing information on other
ways to increase your income.

The good news is there is help with rising energy bills. From October 1 2022, there’s
a limit on gas and electricity prices for most households – this is called the Energy
Price Guarantee and will be in place for two years.

From October you’ll also get £400 off your electricity bill. This is called the Energy
Bills Support Scheme.
You don’t need to do anything to get the money and you won’t have to pay it back.

The money will be paid in six instalments, £66 in October and November followed by
£67 in December, January, February and March.
You should automatically receive the energy discount if you pay by direct debit,
standard credit or payment card.

If you have a prepayment meter that isn’t a smart meter, you’ll get the discount via
vouchers or as an automatic credit when you top up at your usual top-up point. Your
supplier will let you know how they will issue it.

If you have a smart prepayment meter, the credit should be automatically added to
your meter.
If you can’t pay your bills, speak to your energy supplier as they have a responsibility
to help you come up with a solution.

Free, confidential advice and help is available from South Lakes Citizens
Advice on any aspect of debt, consumer problems, benefits, housing,
employment or any other problems. South Lakes Citizens Advice, your local
charity, is here for you. How to access:
Call 015394 46464 – this is being staffed from 9:30 – 2pm
Adviceline: 0808 2787 984
email advice via our submission page on our website
www.southlakescab.org.uk
Help to Claim (Universal Support): 0800 144 8 444