MSE News: Energy debts up three-fold in past four years 12 May 2011 at 5:44PM in Energy 2 replies 1.1K views

Former_MSE_Helen

This is the discussion thread for the following MSE News Story:

"Charity the Money Advice Trust says it has seen a 181% jump in the number of people seeking advice for fuel debts ..."

Read the full story:
Energy debts up three-fold in past four years

brewerdave

Big problem is that Utility companies can allow these debts to build up over a relatively long period ( possibly 12 months or more) - can make the problem insurmountable when its recognised.They need to be much more proactive in ensuring that DDs are set at the correct amount etc
Finance companies and their ilk (internet service providers,telecoms companies etc) are much "better" at jumping on debts early.Some react agressively if only one payment is missed

BargainGalore

Whilst I agree with post 2 also energy prices in recent years have gone up a lot an what with past two years long winters and falling living standards due to inflation and low increases in wages this probably hasn't helped too