Pensioners react to higher fuel bills by staying in bed or using less heat
Pensioners have reacted to higher energy prices since 2004 by turning down the heating or staying in bed to save on fuel bills, new research has highlighted.
According to a major new report by the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) although poorer pensioners have increased their spending on domestic fuel by nearly a third between 2004 and 2007 they have reduced their fuel consumption by 7 per cent.
Charities Age Concern and Help the Aged which commissioned the report have warned that further price increases last year will add to the pressure, forcing some to turn down the heating or cut spending in other areas.
Responding, Garry Felgate, chief executive of the Energy Retail Association, said: “The report highlights some important concerns. Energy companies offer a range of help to customers struggling with their energy bills so that no one goes cold in winter.
“If anyone is concerned about their energy bills, or if they want to find out what grants and discounts are available, they should call their energy supplier or the Home Heat Helpline on 0800 33 66 99.”