A money expert has said people are "scared to open their post" during the cost of living crisis.
Appearing on Good Morning Britain today, Saleem Shafi, executive at Money Buddies chatted to hosts Susanna Reid and Ed Balls about how people on pre payment meters are missing out on cost of living help. An estimated £25 million went unclaimed by those on pre-payment meters last month after they failed to claim the government help.
The government have issued energy bill help to all households with all homes receiving £400 off their energy bills from October, with the discount made in six instalments to help families throughout the winter period. Households will see a discount of £66 applied to their energy bills in October and November, rising to £67 each month from December through to March 2023.
READ MORE: Good Morning Britain viewers slam 'hypocrite' in row over Meghan Markle
However, for a number of reasons, people are missing out. Those on traditional pre-payment meters should have received a voucher or credit from their energy provider.
But Saleem claimed that many haven't received their vouchers due to being "scared" of opening post, with fears of ever increasing bills. He said: "They're not even wanting to open their post because they're scared of what they're getting." He added that people are "really really struggling."
He advised that the most vulnerable need face-to-face support so that they can be helped in the best way possible. Ed added that if you are struggling then you should contact your MP, as if people collectively contact their local politicians then he'd hope something would change.
If you have not yet received your vouchers then you should contact your energy provider as soon as possible.
Receive newsletters with the biggest and breaking TV and showbiz news by signing up here
READ NEXT:
Coronation Street Jude Riordan's age, Emmerdale dad and Michelle Keegan link
Spain travel warning issued from UK Foreign Office
Martin Lewis issues £66 warning to those on pre-payment meters
Blankety Blank's Bradley Walsh 'cuts show early' after Liverpool contestant's confession
Strictly Come Dancing result sees James Bye go home after 'ridiculous' bottom two
