Cornwall's Citizens Advice warns third of people won't be able to pay energy bills
The charity's estimate comes after Saturday's increase in the energy price cap
Last updated 3rd Oct 2022
There is a warning that by January, a third of people in Cornwall will not be able to pay their energy bills.
The Duchy's Citizens Advice is reporting a big rise in the number of families being stretched to breaking point.
It follows the price cap increase which, although less than the previously proposed cap, may see the average energy bill reach around £2,500 this winter.
Back in August, the charity had seen a 50% increase in people needing support with energy issues and a 23% increase in people in fuel debt compared to the same time last year.
Compared with the same time last year, 80% more people had also accessed the service with the threat of homelessness.
The increase in need for its services will put additional pressure on the already stretched charity, who are calling on the public and businesses to help raise the funds needed to recruit and train more staff and volunteers to cope.
Chief Executive, Gill Pipkin, said: "The current crisis is forecast to continue into 2023, and more people will find themselves struggling to make ends meet.
"Our resources are already stretched, and we need additional funding to recruit and train more volunteer advisers, supervisors and administrators to help meet demand.
"If you can donate funds or time to help those most in need, Citizens Advice Cornwall are looking forward to hearing from you".
Citizens Advice Cornwall launched a Crowdfunder appeal after seeing more people unable to pay their bills, afford fuel, falling behind on debts and in urgent need of help as they face the stark choice of heating or eating.
The crisis also means they are now seeing more people who are in work, but who are simply unable to meet day to day living costs.
Read more: Cornwall's second home owners urged to donate energy rebates to charity
Community Fundraising Manager, Tamsin Chapman-Gunner, said: "The cost of living crisis is affecting so many people, we are doing our best to help but we need the support of those who aren't in need to be able to help those that are.
"There are many ways you can support us, from donating to our Crowdfunder appeal to running a fundraising event for us, maybe you have had the rebate but you can afford to donate it? Or do you have some spare time and can volunteer, whatever you can do it will make a difference".
Last year the charity helped over 9,000 people in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, a number they expect to keep growing.
You can read more about the support available on the Citizens Advice Cornwall website.