Revealed: Three areas in region among highest fuel poverty rates

New research has identified Pendle, Burnley, and Hyndburn as North West areas with some of the highest fuel poverty rates.

The study, conducted by Electricity North West, revealed 14.4 per cent of households in its region face fuel poverty - being unable to afford to keep a home adequately heated.

In Pendle, this rises to 19.6 per cent, 19.3 per cent in Burnley, and 18.2 per cent in Hyndburn, with residents affected by general poverty, high energy bills and homes that are often old, draughty and poorly insulated.

To address this, Electricity North West has launched the Take Charge campaign, in collaboration with the Energy Saving Trust and Citizens Advice North West.

The free service, accessed by more than 43,000 residents, provides 'crucial support' to those in need.

Samantha Loukes, head of customer inclusion at Electricity North West, said: "There are many reasons why the North West is impacted.

"A combination of older, inefficient housing stock and lower than average incomes has meant rising energy costs have hit hard.

"North West residents can speak to our Take Charge Citizens Advice experts in confidence to help take control of their bills."

As part of Energy Savers Week, the service is extending additional support to customers in Electricity North West’s operating area.

Local money-saving expert, Thrifty Clair, is supporting the campaign by sharing energy-saving tips and promoting the service.

She said: "Soaring energy bills have impacted a lot of people and it's something I'm asked about a lot.

"I’m pleased to be teaming up with Take Charge to help share my thoughts and advice.”

Electricity North West is investing £8 million in the Take Charge service to support people in the North West.

For more information, visit www.takechargetoday.co.uk.