- According to Citizens Advice, nearly 7.8 million people resorted to borrowing money for energy bills in the first half of 2023.
Citizen Advice, a policy research company, has issued a warning regarding an upsurge in people seeking help due to energy-related debt well ahead of the winter season. Recent research by the charity has brought attention to an astonishing 7.8 million individuals who had to borrow money to cover their energy expenses in the first half of 2023. This already concerning number is anticipated to climb even higher in the coming months.
Based on their estimations, Citizens Advice predicts a 26% increase in the number of individuals needing aid with energy debt by the end of this year compared to 2022. These troubling statistics suggest that unless the government takes substantial steps concerning energy bills, many could face a winter as difficult as, if not more so than, the previous year.
The findings from the charity’s research indicate that the upcoming winter could disproportionately impact disabled people, single parents, and households with an annual income below £29,000. About 55% of disabled individuals are concerned about affording energy expenses in the next six months. Similarly, as December approaches, 77% of single parents express apprehensions about energy costs.
Dame Clare Moriarty, the Chief Executive of Citizens Advice, has highlighted the seriousness of the situation by stating that the circumstances witnessed last winter should never be replicated. Ms Moriarty has strongly stressed the need for government intervention to offer additional support in helping individuals navigate the difficulties of the upcoming winter season.