The consequences of a current campaign for people to cancel their Direct Debits to energy companies, needs to be carefully considered as it could lead to even more suffering for the fuel poor, says The Footprint Trust.
Ray Harrington-Vail of the Trust, which specialises in helping Islanders who are in fuel poverty, said,
“We completely understand consumers’ frustration at the lack of action by the government to the latest fuel price predictions.
“They have said they will not even consider any action until the new Prime Minister is in place in September.
“We agree with consumer champion Martin Lewis, the time for planning and action is now!”
The Isle of Wight is set to hit record levels of fuel poverty, as high as 30 per cent by the end of the this coming winter.
Beware of the consequences
Ray set out some of the scenarios facing those who refuse to pay for the energy they have used…
If you cancel your direct debit, you might be charged a fee, further adding to your debt. Direct debit is usually the cheapest option, other payment methods may cost more.
Cancelling your current energy agreement could mean that you will accrue more debt, as you will be put on the standard tariff.
CCJ and goods seized
Flatly refusing to pay will ultimately lead to a County Court Judgement (CCJ) against the bill payer. This in turn could lead to a Warrant of Control being issued to seize goods, such as your car or other possessions.
Those having CCJs may find it difficult to obtain a new tenancy, mortgage, bank loan, credit card or even a mobile phone contract, due to their poor credit rating. You may also have to pay court and recovery costs.
Services cut off
Ultimately not paying anything towards your energy usage and debt could lead to your energy being cut off.
Whilst this is rare and not done if vulnerable people are in the home, it is a possibility.
Seek help
If anyone is struggling to pay their energy bills contact your energy company and explain your circumstance, they will come up with an affordable payment plan.
Contact The Footprint Trust for information on grants and other help available by email [email protected] or phone 01983 822282.
News shared by Ray, in his own words, on behalf of Footprint Trust. Ed
Image: sven brandsma under CC BY 2.0
