How to protect consumers as energy prices rise

Cost of living policy briefing - Jan 22 [ 70 kb]

The cost of living crisis has been growing in scale and impact over the last six months, with inflation reaching historic levels and yet to peak. Those on the lowest incomes are most exposed, and masked within the headline inflation figures are specific increases that are hitting low income households the hardest.

Last year, over a million energy consumers used our services and we helped more than 700,000 people with one-to-one advice on legacy benefits, tax credits and Universal Credit. Drawing on our unique expertise, we’ve analysed different policy options to help tackle the cost of living crisis and proposed an immediate support package to reduce pressure on energy consumers and boost incomes for those in need.