Proposed energy bill discounts for PIP and Attendance Allowance recipients amid Ofgem hike

A proposed new energy bill discount for disabled individuals receiving benefits such as Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and Attendance Allowance has been put forward. Campaigners are urging the Labour Government to take immediate action in light of the recent Ofgem price cap increase, particularly as we approach the colder months of autumn and winter.

Ofgem has announced that average household energy bills will increase from October, meaning households across Britain will face higher costs. The price cap will see a rise of £149 from the current £1,568 per year for a typical household in England, Scotland and Wales, bringing it to a new level of £1,717.

The regulator is encouraging people to utilise any state benefits they are entitled to, which could assist with energy bills as well as the broader cost of living. Richard Lane, from debt charity StepChange, expressed concern that "worry that a rise in the price cap may tip struggling households into deeper debt."

He called on the Government to provide targeted support for those most in need.

Households with disabled residents, including those on Personal Independence Payment and Attendance Allowance, are expressing deep concern over the impact of rising energy costs. The increased need for heating and essential equipment usage means these households will feel the sting of the price cap rise even more acutely, reports Birmingham Live.

This comes alongside new limitations to the Winter Fuel Payment, which will no longer include PIP and Attendance Allowance as eligible benefits, prompting charities to call for Labour to implement special tariffs for vulnerable groups.

James Taylor, executive director of strategy at Scope, commented on the dire situation: "After three