Heating and Eating is a Basic Human Right Every Day  

Imagine you’re facing the choice between heating or eating. Which would you choose? And could you realistically even try? 

Fuel and food poverty is something that should belong to a bygone age. However, for the UK’s elderly, disabled, and those on low incomes, it’s a harsh 21st-century reality! 

On 10th December, we celebrate Human Rights Day. So, it seems inconceivable, that on this date, parts of the UK population will be forced to choose between keeping warm or going hungry. Surely, both heat and food are basic human rights?

The Inhumane Choice Between Heating and Eating

The recent news of another ‘inhumane’ Ofgem energy price cap rise in January 2025 has sparked fear in those struggling financially. It has also caused fresh fury amongst the UK’s fuel poverty action groups campaigning against these price rises.

 In 2022, a spokesperson for the End Fuel Poverty Coalition issued a stark warning that still echoes in today’s society : 

‘Millions of families across the country will face the real prospect of skipping meals to pay for energy, older people will shut themselves into one room to save on heating and disabled people will be unable to afford to charge vital equipment, such as electric wheelchairs. 

Then in January, they will be asked to pay even more for their energy. 

Ultimately, this decision will force more people into fuel poverty in the middle of winter, causing additional stress on the NHS and it may ultimately lead to increased levels of excess winter deaths this year. It is simply inhumane.’ 

Blue Christmas

We can no longer take for granted that we can sufficiently heat our homes in winter. In fact, for many, it has become a luxury only to be used in emergency. For people with long-term health conditions or those vulnerable to the cold, this can be a life-and-death decision. For families already struggling to make ends meet, the thought of a New Year gas and electricity bill dropping on the doormat is a terrifying prospect. For many this Christmas, there could be less food on the table, fewer lights on the tree…and barely any presents underneath it. 

So, what exactly are the conditions that are causing the UK to struggle so much this winter? 

Another Winter of Discontent 

Winter energy bills are still 65% higher than in 2020/21. Ongoing world conflicts, supply chain gaps and fossil fuel-related market influences are causing soaring gas, electricity and oil prices.

Add to this the Labour Government’s recent removal of the guaranteed Winter Fuel Allowance for the elderly and limited financial support for people struggling to pay their bills…and we truly approach another winter of discontent. 

Paying the Cost of Living 

Energy prices aren’t the only thing on the rise. The cost of everyday essentials such as food, housing and transport are similarly affected.

According to the latest survey conducted by The Food Foundation, 7.2 million adults experienced food insecurity in June this year. Two and a half million of these also reported not eating for an entire day because they couldn’t afford or access food. 

For the many households whose wages aren’t rising in line with inflation, this will put a greater strain on budgets and even less to spend on heating and eating!

Weathering Extreme Storms 

The UK has found itself in the grip of unpredictable weather, with more to come. Floods, extreme heat and snow in November are just some of the extreme weather events we’ve seen this year. 

With 12 storms during 2023/24, it’s the first time we’ve reached letter ‘L’ in the alphabet. A recent visit from Storm Darragh means we’ve already begun ticking off 24/25’s storm register! 

Extreme temperatures mean the cost of heating and cooling has become a year-round problem, with no sign of going away any time soon. 

The Harm to Health  

Being unable to heat our homes adequately leads to health risks. This applies particularly to those already vulnerable to changes in temperature such as the elderly or those with disabilities. Hypothermia, respiratory illnesses, or chronic diseases are some conditions that can result or be made worse by cold temperatures. 

Inadequate nutrition due to not being able to afford to eat can lead to poor physical and mental health. These additional challenges can prevent people from physically and financially supporting themselves and their families, compounding the cycle of poverty. 

There is Hope…and Help For Heating and Eating

Unfortunately, the rising costs of fuel and food are currently beyond our control. However, here are some positive steps you can follow to lessen the impact. 

Switch and fix

If you already haven’t done this, now may be the best time to switch and fix a new energy deal. Check comparison websites such as USwitch, Switcheroo, MoneySuperMarket and Compare the Market for current offers. 

Government Heating Assistance Grants

Although thousands of pensioners have now lost their Winter Fuel Payment, many are still eligible. If you were born before 23rd September 1958; live in England, Wales or Northern Ireland; and are claiming certain benefits – then you may still qualify. Also, check your eligibility for schemes such as the Warm Home Discount Scheme. If you are on a low income or claim the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit you could qualify. You may also be eligible for one-off Cold Weather Payments if you claim certain benefits such as Universal Credit. If you live in Scotland, there are several separate Heating Payments you may be eligible for, so it’s worth checking! 

Government Energy Efficiency Grants

The Government has introduced several grants that aim to improve the energy efficiency of homes and reduce energy bills. These include the ECO4 Scheme, the Great British Insulation Scheme and the Boiler Upgrade Scheme. You may be eligible if you earn less than £31,000, live in a property with a low EPC rating, claim certain benefits or have qualifying medical conditions

Food banks, community meal programs and social supermarkets

For people who are struggling to afford to feed themselves and their families, there are several national charities that provide access to free or reduced-price food and household essentials. Organisations such as The Trussell Trust, The Salvation Army and Foodcycle have local branches nationwide. These important services can help vulnerable people afford heating and eating in their homes.

Winter-proof your home

Implement habits around the home like checking and adjusting your thermostat and sealing gaps around your doors and windows. Tips like these can help to keep the heat in and your bills down during the winter months. 

The Christmas Present…and Future

There is no denying that the Christmas present looks somewhat bleak. However, knowing that there is help out there may give hope of better future ones to come. If you’re struggling to heat your home or feed yourself and your family, know that you are not alone. Please follow the above tips or reach out to the many national and regional charities and organisations on our Support Hub for further help.

Heating and Eating is a Human Right Everyday

Here at Energy Advice Helpline, we believe that everyone should have access to heating and eating, not just on Human Rights Day…but every day of the year! Please follow this link to see how we can help you access help to make your home more energy efficient today!