COTSWOLD residents struggling to pay their energy bills and living in cold homes are being urged to seek the help that is available.

Although 96,470 households in Gloucestershire received the winter fuel payment to help with their energy costs last winter, the charity says that many will cut back on heating their home this winter as they struggle financially.

Poverty charity Turn2us is stressing it is crucial that those in Gloucestershire, who are concerned about their fuel bills, receive the support that they are eligible for.

Research by the charity has found that more than half surveyed - 53 per cent - were not aware that energy suppliers offer support towards winter energy bills to certain customers, such as those on low incomes.

Meanwhile two-thirds surveyed were also not aware some energy suppliers have charitable trusts helping customers struggling with their energy bills.

Turn2us helps people in financial hardship gain access to welfare benefits and charitable grants, and is also running a No Cold Homes campaign to raise awareness of the different types of support.

Simon Hopkins, Turn2us chief executive, said: “Our research lays bare the extent to which people are needlessly suffering in cold homes this winter.

"We are urging people to check with relatives and neighbours, especially those who are older or living with a disability, so that we can tackle this situation head on."

For more on the campaign visit turn2us.org.uk/About-Us/Our-campaigns/No-Cold-Homes.