7 August 2008
Britain's over-50s are being forced to cut back on their usual spending or dip into their savings in order to meet the rising cost of gas and electricity, a new survey shows. According to research from Saga, more than 35% of people over the age of 50 are concerned about the sacrifices they will have to make to pay their energy bills this winter. It also reveals that 86% are already making changes to their lifestyle to ensure they have enough money to keep themselves warm during the colder months. Of those questioned, 73% said they would be cutting back on the amount of energy they use, while 38% said they would be looking at ways to make their home more energy efficient. However, despite taking these measures, almost a quarter said they have had to use some of their savings to pay their gas and electricity bills. The study follows announcements from two major energy providers - EDF Energy and British Gas - that they are putting up their gas and electricity prices. Ann Robinson, Director of Consumer Policy at uSwitch.com, said the moves signalled a "nail in the coffin for affordable energy".
© 2008 Adfero Ltd
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