By Mencap
What is fuel poverty?
As December arrives, the temperature outside is dropping rapidly. For many people in the UK, this is very dangerous, as they cannot afford the energy needed to keep their home warm.
For the last 4 years, energy bills have been very high. Some people have been getting into debt just to pay for their energy bills, with some even having to choose between buying food or heating their home. This is known as fuel poverty.
Who does fuel poverty affect?
Fuel poverty affects all kinds of people who are struggling financially. Certain Certain means you are sure about something. groups of vulnerable Being vulnerable means being at risk of harm, or that you need special care because of your age or disability. people are likely to face extra challenges with fuel poverty. This includes people with a learning disability A learning disability is to do with the way someone's brain works. It makes it harder for someone to learn, understand or do things. , for reasons such as:
- Some health conditions mean that people have to spend money on keeping their medical equipment running.
- Some health conditions might mean that the person needs to stay a warmer or steadier temperature than other people.
- Energy bills can be confusing and hard to understand.
- Some people with a learning disability might find it hard to manage their energy usage during winter.
- Vulnerable people including those with a learning disability are more likely to be targeted by scammers.
How you can help
There are many ways you can help spread the message of Fuel Poverty Awareness Day and get people talking about this problem.
- Spread the word! - Let everyone know about Fuel Poverty Awareness Day, if you use social media you can use the hashtag #FuelPovertyAwarenessDay.
- Write or sign a letter to your local
representative
A representative is also called a rep. A representative is someone who speaks up for everyone in their group or team.
- You can contact your local MP and ask them to try and do more to help people who are struggling with energy bills. There is a template you can use on the NEA website - Get involved Involved is being included in something or taking part in something. with fundraising – The NEA are hosting a fundraising event called The Nation’s Biggest Housewarming. There are lots of ways to take part, so take a look!
Getting help with your energy bills
Are you experiencing fuel poverty?
We have several pages of information and things you can do to get help:
The Learning Disability Helpline
Our free helpline service A service gives people what they need, like healthcare services that help people when they are ill, and support services that give people support. offers advice and support for people with a learning disability, and their families and carers.
This article was created thanks to funding from the British Gas Energy Trust.