Fuel poverty protests to take place across the UK

Campaigners are calling for greater support to help with rising energy bills

Author: Jonny FreemanPublished 21st Jan 2023
Last updated 21st Jan 2023

Protests are being held in cities across the UK later to highlight the number of people who are now living in fuel poverty.

Campaign groups are demanding the government bans forced prepayment meters, which disconnect families from their gas and electricity when they can't afford to top them up.

The action's being organised by Fuel Poverty Action, which is worried about the number of deaths linked to the issue.

Yesterday vigils took place in Brighton, Cardiff, London and Leicester.

Andrew spoke to us at the event in Brighton - he says bills are becoming unaffordable:

"Even before the official beginning of the energy crisis, our bills had already gone up six times in the previous 18 months.

"In our house what we've had to do is save money on food."

It's a similar situation for Katy Young - who thinks the situation is becoming incredibly serious:

"People are dying, children are hungry and cold and unable to learn.

"Warm hubs are having to be set up for people to go to. It's just not good enough."

The government's pledged to help those struggling with the high cost of living.

A number of measures have been introduced including support payments for those in need of help.

Luke's one of a number of protestors taking part in an event in London. He's been telling us why he's concerned by the crisis.

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