Citizens Advice warning over consumer fuel debt

A 46 per cent rise in the number of consumers with fuel debts has been seen during the first two quarters of 2009, it has been reported.

According to the Citizens Advice Bureau, this latest surge continues an upward trend which first emerged during 2005-06.

The charity says that as winter approaches and fuel bills inevitably get higher, consumers should seek free debt advice to ensure they do not enter further difficulty.

David Harker, chief executive of Citizens Advice, said that with fuel prices remaining at historically high levels, it is essential that people get all the help that is available.

He added: "Recent government increases in Warm Front Grants and Cold Weather Payments will go some way towards helping, but information on what help is available, targeted to those who are most vulnerable, must be a prime focus for the government and energy companies."

Last week, Ali Steed and Liz King of My Money Diva told the Daily Mail that addressing bills is the only way for those who owe money to get themselves out of debt.

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2009-10-21 12:43:02 © Moneyextra.com