Four in every 10 households will struggle to pay their next energy bill, new research has revealed. The research, carried out by YouGov and commissioned by British Gas, follows the announcement of Ofgem’s 54 per cent increase which began being implemented on April 1.
Rapper and mental health campaigner Professor Green has joined a campaign with British Gas to get people talking about energy debt, the Daily Record reports. As part of the intiative, British Gas launched the British Gas Energy Trust, to support those struggling with their finances.
This is part of a new Charitable Trust founded by the gas supplier to try and help customers suffering under energy bill financial stress amid the cost of living crisis. British Gas can offer help and support even to those who are with different providers under the scheme.
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However, it is important to note that applications for the grant specifically for those with other suppliers have now closed. British Gas will still offer support and advice to those customers with different suppliers, and applications remain open for British Gas customers.
The YouGov study found that more than a third (35 per cent) of energy bill payers are “suffering in silence”, and attempting to hide their worries and concerns from those close to them. This is leading to increased anxiety (65%), lower self-esteem (18%), insomnia (18%), and has a negative impact on the relationships of those affected (16%).
The trust will provide support, education and money management advice to those who are suffering with financial hardship, or are at risk of suffering with financial hardship. It predicts that as the rent price cap increases and the cost of living worsens, many more will experience energy bill insecurity.
Professor Green stars in the film created for the campaign. He said: “Reading the Stop the Silence film script was an emotional experience. As many people know, my parents weren’t around growing up and my grandmother raised me on an estate in Hackney.
“Money was tight, and there was always stress about paying our energy bill. Advice and services, like those provided by British Gas Energy Trust, just weren’t available to us and those around me. I urge families and individuals suffering in silence to reach out to British Gas Energy Trust to get the help they so desperately need.”
Get help or advice from the British Gas Energy Trust here .
