Britons are embarrassed to seek help with bill payments: research.

Payment issues for energy among adults

According to The Sun: Less than 40% of adults seek professional help or support when facing difficulties paying energy bills. This is due to the stigma surrounding the topic.

A survey of 2000 adults revealed that 35% of them sometimes struggle to pay their energy bills, yet most remain silent.

34% of people keep their struggles secret due to stigma or feelings of shame, and this percentage has increased from 28% last year.

Among individuals aged 25 to 34, this issue is noted most frequently (47%).

Some avoided seeking help due to misconceptions that they wouldn't be able to get support (35%) or because they believe the application process is too complicated (23%).

51% of respondents noted that they find it difficult to talk about struggles with paying energy bills, which is an increase from 35% last year.

The most challenging expenses recognized include gas and electricity payments (26%), followed by council tax (1%) and water supply (11%).

This figure reaches 51% among people aged 25 to 34 and 56% among those aged 18 to 24.

Initiatives to support the population

The research was commissioned by British Gas through its independent charity British Gas Energy Trust, which collaborates with the Post Office and 20 local charities providing financial and energy assistance. Their plan is to organize 120 free meetings in 20 offices across the UK within the next 12 months.

These events will provide opportunities for practical, personal support with budgeting, energy debts, applying for interest-free loans, and accessing easy energy-saving methods.

“We know that managing household budgets remains a real challenge for many, as living costs press on people across the country,' said Jessica Taplin, CEO of British Gas Energy Trust.

She also emphasized that while the number of people seeking support is growing, many still find it difficult to do so. 'That’s why we are collaborating with the Post Office and trusted local charities to provide support in communities across Britain.'

The research showed that homeowners have more problems paying energy bills (41%) than renters (21%).

Among those willing to seek support, the first step is either reaching out to friends and family (31%) or using energy providers' payment plans (23%).

Additionally, 54% believe that advice from trusted local charities on financial and energy issues would significantly simplify obtaining necessary support in challenging times.

Also, 54% think that in this situation, they would turn directly to their energy provider.

About two-thirds (62%) believe that the government and charitable programs should offer more support to people in managing rising energy costs.

“It is nice to see that more people are reaching out to their energy suppliers when they are struggling,' said Christina King, vulnerability manager at British Gas.

She also reported that the company invested over £100 million in debt relief and non-repayable loans to those who have faced serious difficulties.

“Our advisors will be available at local events to provide practical, personal support in overcoming challenges during the winter season and beyond,” she added.

Thus, British Gas initiatives are aimed at reducing the financial burden on citizens and supporting them in a difficult time of rising energy prices. Collaboration with local charities and the government can significantly improve the situation for those facing difficulties in paying bills.