Winter Worries: Citizens Advice Doncaster and Centurion Partner to Provide Crucial Support Amid Rising Energy Bills

With winter fast approaching and energy prices set to rise yet again, many Doncaster residents are bracing for a tough season. Despite energy bills being lower than at the height of the cost-of-living crisis, they remain a staggering 30% higher than pre-crisis levels. This means more people are struggling to keep up, with the combination of rising costs and reduced support, such as the Winter Fuel Allowance, creating a perfect storm for local families.

Fuel Poverty Growing in Doncaster

A significant 18% of households in Doncaster are already living in fuel poverty, forcing families to make impossible choices between heating their homes and buying food. Citizens Advice Doncaster, in partnership with local business Centurion, is stepping up to offer critical support during these challenging times.

Citizens Advice Doncaster in Action: A Year of Impact

Over the past year, Citizens Advice Doncaster has supported 1,465 clients with over 6,006 issues, helping local residents secure income gains totaling £1,015,611. In addition, they have provided 550 warm packs and 460 fuel vouchers to those in need, along with delivering 180 community workshops focused on energy efficiency and financial advice.

Centurion’s Contribution: Energy-Saving Kits

In collaboration with Centurion, Citizens Advice Doncaster is distributing energy-saving kits designed to make homes more efficient and reduce energy bills. These kits include essential items such as window film, draught excluders, and radiator insulation – practical measures that help keep homes warmer without using extra energy.

James Woods, CEO of Citizens Advice Doncaster, emphasised the importance of this partnership:

"We’re incredibly grateful to Centurion for their support. These energy efficiency packs, combined with expert advice from our energy specialists, will provide a lifeline to many struggling households this winter. By working together, we can help people stay warm, reduce their bills, and alleviate the financial strain on families."

Looking Ahead: A Tough Winter for Doncaster

As we move into the colder months, the demand for support is expected to rise significantly. Despite a decrease from the peak of the crisis, energy bills remain a real financial burden for many households. With fewer government support measures in place, the situation is likely to worsen for vulnerable families. Citizens Advice Doncaster fears many residents will face impossible decisions, such as choosing between heating their homes or feeding their families.

Citizens Advice Doncaster’s Full Range of Support Services

In addition to providing energy-saving kits, Citizens Advice Doncaster offers free, expert advice on a range of energy-related issues, including:

• Help with paying bills

• Managing energy debts

• Making homes more energy-efficient

• Switching suppliers

• Smart meter issues

• Accessing fuel vouchers

• Applying for trust fund support for bills and essential appliances

Don’t Struggle Alone – Get Help Today

If you or someone you know is struggling with energy bills this winter, Citizens Advice Doncaster is here to help. Their dedicated team is ready to provide practical solutions to ease the pressure on household budgets.

Contact Citizens Advice Doncaster:

• Phone: 01302 243057

• Website: www.citizensadvicedoncaster.org

Together, we can help Doncaster residents stay warm, safe, and financially secure this winter.