Ask Grace: tips on making your money go further

Help with paying utility bills 

If you’re worried about your bill, speak to your supplier straight away. Under Ofgem regulations, your supplier is obliged to:

• help you and be as supportive as possible
• always provide regular and accurate meter readings
• check that your bills are correct

Always make sure you tell them about any vulnerabilities you have. They can help you with (subject to eligibility criteria):

• debt repayment plans
• payment breaks
• emergency credit for prepayment meters

Did you know there are many funds and support schemes you can apply for? Visit the following websites for more information:

• British Gas Energy Trust Fund application form
• Help for Households - Get government cost of living support
• Energy Bills Support Scheme explainer
• What to do if you're struggling to pay your energy bills

Unclaimed welfare benefits

Billions of pounds in benefits remain unclaimed every year because people don’t know what they are entitled to. The latest figures show Council Tax Reduction, Tax Credits and Housing Benefit are the most unclaimed, leaving millions out of pocket. Check your benefit entitlement now.

Did you know you can also contact us for support?

• If you are vulnerable, call us on 0300 456 9998 and we’ll try to find help for you
• If you have any money worries, phone our Pound Advice on 0203 475 2221
• If you are looking for work or your job does not pay enough – email employmentsupport@lqgroup.org.uk