New research from the National Audit Office (NAO) has revealed that millions are missing out on vital support with energy and water bills. This comes as over £7 billion worth of debt is owed to energy and water companies.
The report examined how Ofcom, Ofwat and Ofgem support consumers in vulnerable circumstances and whether people can access the help they need from essential service providers.
The watchdog found a marked increase in household energy debt following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, with debt more than double its 2021 level, up 118%.
Since the NAO’s last report on this topic in 2019, regulators have strengthened protections, introducing new rules on how companies treat customers and taking enforcement…