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Elderly 'may be at higher risk of fuel poverty'

Elderly people may be among those who are at risk of living in fuel poverty, particularly those who live in older properties which may be less energy efficient, it has been suggested.

Citing Simon Little, business development director at Home & Capital, Mortgage Introducer reported that people who live on a "low and fixed income" - such as a state pension - may pay a disproportionate amount on energy bills.

He added that those who live in "an older property without modern energy-saving devices such as double glazing and loft insulation" may be among the most at-risk, as well as people who use a prepayment meter scheme - who are usually on a higher tariff than those who use a monthly direct debit system.

Mr Little suggested that retired people should claim the government support they are entitled to in an effort to help ease costs such as disability benefits and council tax.

Meanwhile earlier this week, Norwich and Peterborough Building Society offered a number of money saving tips, including unplugging all electrical items when they are not in use and to budget regularly for utility bills.

Find out how the Energy Saving Trust can help you