MORE THAN 200 people found out how to cut the cost of their energy bills thanks to Citizens Advice.
To mark last week’s Big Energy Saving Week, the charity held events in Wokingham and Woodley town centres aimed at raising awareness of how to save the pennies.
Organisers said that they helped 229 local people by explaining how to reduce their energy costs using a three-step rule of check, switch, save:
- Check their meter and bills regularly to make sure they’re paying the right amount.
- Switch to a different tariff or supplier that’s better value for money by using Citizens Advice’s energy comparison tool.
- Save energy by turning appliances off and making sure walls and lofts are well insulated. Also ensure the boiler is in good working order.
And Citizens Advice has an energy comparison tool on its website, allowing anyone to log on and find out what they could save.
Jake Morrison, Chief Executive of Citizens Advice Wokingham, said: “Big Energy Saving Week is a fantastic opportunity to get expert advice on a range of ways you can reduce your energy costs.
“Switching your tariff or supplier is normally the quickest and most effective way to bring your costs down, but you can also modify your home and change your habits.
“It’s important for us to be taking part in Big Energy Saving Week as it’s older people and those on the lowest incomes who are likely to be paying over the odds for their energy as they’re least likely to switch.
“I am proud that our dedicated team of volunteers spent time out in the cold talking to over 200 people about how Citizens Advice Wokingham can help them.
“We are also grateful to Sir John Redwood MP for visiting our stall at Wokingham Town Centre and having a tour of our offices to meet our team and discuss issues affecting people who come to see us.”
And Sir John was equally pleased to have visited.
In a blog post he said: “Citizens Advice were telling people about how to switch tariffs or supplier to get a better deal. They were also explaining how to improve insulation and efficiency of boilers and machines at home to cut demand. I am all in favour of green policies which save us money, letting us stay warm and clean whilst using less power. Thats a win win for us all. Getting on the cheapest tariff can also help with the family budget.
“Whilst at the stall I was invited to visit their offices and meet more of the staff and volunteers. I was pleased to learn they are recruiting more people who would like to help others in the community, and are training them so they can be confident in the advice they provide.
“I like to keep in touch with the CAB and hear of any problems affecting a number of people, especially where government might be able to help or to do something better or differently to cut down on the numbers.
“I said a big thank you to all involved. The CAB are always interested in recruiting more volunteer advisers. It can be very worthwhile and interesting work.”
For more details, call Citizens Advice’s consumer service helpline on 03454 04 05 06.
