Millions of UK households forced to make heartbreaking energy bill decision

British Gas, OVO, EDF, EON and Octopus customers are being forced to make a heartbreaking decision before Christmas. 6.7 million people from some of the biggest energy firms in the country plan to cut back on showers and baths to afford rising energy costs over winter, a survey suggests.

The poll for National Debtline found 45 per cent of people are heading into the winter period worried about their finances. Some 12 per cent are planning to cut back on baths and showers to help them afford rising energy costs, the study found. The poll suggests 17% have not told anyone about their money worries, and National Debtline said it is concerned that millions of people are facing financial struggles alone this winter.

Of those worried about affording their energy bills, just 10% had spoken to their energy supplier and 8% had asked for debt advice. The charity found that women are more likely than men to be concerned about affording their energy bills this winter, but men are twice as likely to have asked for debt advice.

READ MORE Households waking up to £130 Cost of Living payments in bank accounts today

53 per cent plan to take measures this winter to help afford their energy costs and 14 per cent plan to reduce spending at Christmas, including buying fewer presents. Steve Vaid, chief executive of the Money Advice Trust, the charity that runs National Debtline, said: “Too many people are heading into winter weighed down by money worries, with millions cutting back on the very basics, like taking fewer showers or baths, simply to try and keep up with their bills.

“More than five million alone are regularly losing sleep, with relationships and health impacted, too. It does not need to be this way – no-one should face financial worries alone this winter. I would encourage anyone worried about their finances to contact National Debtline. Our advisers will be able to help whatever the situation.”