Energy bills are biggest cost of living pressure in Hull and East Yorkshire, says Citizens Advice
The charity says more price rises are likely and wants targeted government support
Rising energy bills are the biggest cost of living pressure facing people in Hull and East Yorkshire, according to Citizens Advice.
Jessica Smith, the Data and Insights Officer for Citizens Advice Hull and East Yorkshire, said the energy price cap has risen to its highest level since 2023.
She said further increases are likely, with the situation in the Middle East having an impact on bills.
Jessica said households are also seeing higher prices for food, fuel and other essentials.
She said people are still in a cost of living crisis and are coming to the charity for help with debt, housing costs, food, fuel and charity support.
What help is available
Jessica said the support available depends on each person's circumstances, including whether they are currently receiving benefits.
She said Citizens Advice can check what someone is entitled to, and that some people are eligible for support without knowing it.
"I'd always encourage anyone that's struggling to come speak to us at Citizens Advice so we can look at what can be done," she said.
Calls for government action
The government have announced that the next Budget will take place on Wednesday 28 October 2026.
Jessica believes the government urgently needs to step in with a package of targeted support on energy bills for low income households.
The charity also wants rapid progress on data matching, so targeted support can reach households outside the benefit system who may still be struggling, she said.
Jessica said the Warm Home Discount is worth £150 and has stayed the same for more than a decade, without rising with inflation or sharply rising energy prices.
Jessica says she would like the government to look at the Warm Home Discount or local housing allowance rates.