Elderly urged to switch and save

AGE Concern has warned Britain‘s elderly to plan ahead for the winter and switch utility providers to get a better deal.

The charity says that recent big rises in the price of gas could leave old people struggling to cope when winter sets in. It urges them to shop around for a better deal on their heating bills.

A spokesman said: ?Act early in time for the cold weather, make sure you understand the package and take your time in making decisions, whatever the pressure or incentives offered. Those who want to benefit from lower gas bills this winter have to act now.‘

Wholesale gas prices have risen 40% since January, due to uncertainty over oil supply from the Middle East and the depletion of gas reserves in the North Sea. Npower confirmed yesterday that it is raising energy prices for the second time this year, in line with many other providers.

Despite the rise in world gas prices, consumer groups claim that Britons are paying far more for their energy than they should be. According to the Major Users Energy Council, prices here are 40% higher than in the US.

Spokesman Eddie Proffitt said: ?There are a number of suspicious factors driving up prices much higher than abroad‘. This has prompted the organisation to demand an investigation into energy prices by Ofgem, the industry regulator.

Switching is a straightforward process though some energy companies have in the past made it difficult for customers to change to a rival provider. In July Ofgem imposed fines on British Gas, Npower, Powergen and Scottish Power for blocking customers from switching.