Rural households still in danger of racking up huge energy debts
Rural households still in danger of racking up huge energy debts
- Tuesday, 4 August 2009A worryingly large number of rural households are still missing out on much-needed support when it comes to dealing with rising fuel bills, with some of the worst-affected likely to turn to debt consolidation solutions as their bills mount up.
The Commission for Rural Communities (CRC) has revealed that more still needs to be done to help those most vulnerable to fuel poverty.
Its comments follow on from a recent report released by the Public Accounts Committee on the performance of the government's Warm Front Scheme, which showed that much-needed funds are often going to households able to pay for their energy requirements.
In particular, the CRC has pointed out that many rural homes are harder to heat efficiently, while using domestic heating oil means many households will continue to face bills that are much higher-than-average for the foreseeable future.
This could lead many to turn to solutions such as debt consolidation schemes as they look to manage their debts more effectively.
CRC executive director Crispin Moor concluded: "We want to see by the coming winter the Warm Front scheme delivering more effectively and fairly for those in fuel poverty in our rural communities."
Fuel poverty is defined as when a household is required to spend ten per cent or more of its monthly income on fuel bills.

Recent Debt Management Plan News
56% of Brits have no life insurance which could leave family with debt problems
Wed, 04 May 2011More than half of UK adults currently have no life insurance cover, which could mean their loved ones are left with
debt problems when they die...
Brits thinking about retirement advised to seek debt advice
Tue, 03 May 2011Consumers considering their retirement options have been advised to seek professional advice, as they may end up with
debt problems in the future...
Brits planning to attend a wedding should start saving to avoid debt problems
Thu, 28 Apr 2011Consumers concerned about getting into
credit card debt to pay to attend a wedding may want to use their savings instead...
Couples planning their big day can avoid debt problems by negotiating a cheap wedding
Wed, 27 Apr 2011Couples-to-be worried about needing
debt advice in the future after paying for a wedding can ensure they avoid accruing
debt problems by negotiating a cheap wedding...