These websites are run by the Financial Services Authority, the organisation in the UK set-up by the government to regulate financial services and protect your rights. Because they’re the regulator, they’re not selling anything. So, all their information is impartial.
Other useful numbers
- Advice UK - 0207 7407 4070 -www.adviceuk.org.uk
All members provide free and confidential advice on a range of subjects, but not all provide money advice.
- Consumer Credit Counselling Service (CCCS) - 0800 138 1111 - www.cccs.co.uk
CCCS offers a structured programme on how to manage your money.
- Credit Action - 020 7436 9937 - www.creditaction.org.uk
Provides information and guidance for people looking to manage their money better or to deal with debt or money worries.
- Debt Advice Network - 0300 011 2340 - www.debtadvicenetwork.org
A charity with a nationwide network of advisors offering free, impartial advice on any type of debt problem.
- Payplan - 0800 917 7823 - www.payplan.com
Free confidential advice on debt problems.
If you are struggling to pay your gas and electricity bills there is plenty of help available.
First contact your energy supplier, as they may be able to offer you a special tariff or payment plan to help you stay on top of your bills.
If you are over 60, disabled or chronically ill you should contact your supplier to make sure you are on their Priority Service Register. This entitles you to a range of free services including quarterly meter reads if you have difficulty reading the meter.
Here are some simple starting points:
- Contact the Home Heat Helpline, a free, expert service for vulnerable people, on 0800 336699. They can speak to your fuel supplier for you and find out if you can obtain any extra financial help.
- Contact your power supplier for advice and to see if they have special tariffs for low income customers. Contacts include:
| British Gas - Essentials Tariff: |
0845 850 22 07 |
| EDF - Energy Assist: |
0800 328 9010 |
| EON - Age Concern Tariff (over 60’s only): |
0800 015 6784 |
| Npower - First Steps: |
0808 172 6999 |
| Scottish & Southern, Southern Electric, Atlantic - Energyplus Care: |
0800 622 838 |
| Scottish Power - Carefree Plus Tariff: |
08452 700 700 |
- Contact the Energy Saving Trust advice centre for energy saving advice:
www.energysavingtrust.org.uk
- Check if you can save money by switching to a new supplier. Contact a free 'fuel comparison service' for advice. You need old bills to make a comparison. You can do it by phone or fill out an online form.
Where to get further advice if you have access to the internet.