Warning over heating bills

Warning over heating bills

11 April 2012

DOWNPATRICK Credit Union says people should use the summer months to consider how they can best meet their heating bills in the winter.

Local people are being invited to visit the Credit Union and examine how fuel costs can be spread over a longer period. In addition members can see what loan options are available to carry out home improvements now to reduce bills in the future.

Philip Blair of Downpatrick Credit Union says the recent improvement in the weather on the back of a relatively mild winter should not make people complacent about the burden the cost of fuel can place on households.

“The snowfalls of 2011 were a wake up call to how severe weather can send fuel bills sky high, leaving many families and individuals struggling to pay,” he said. “A recent Irish League of Credit Unions household survey found 9 out of 10 people in Northern Ireland are forced to ration fuel during cold snaps.

“Over the coming months we are inviting people to come and visit our offices on Market Street and examine how they can use the summer weather to reduce the burden of fuel bills.”

EasyShare Accounts are one of the options available which can be used to spread the cost of heating oil, gas or coal across the year and ensure a big bill does not have to be paid in one go.

In addition members can apply for low cost loans and use the fine weather to insulate or carry out other improvements to their homes which would reduce overall fuel bills during the winter.

“Over the summer and throughout the year our trained staff and volunteers are ready to help local people meet their financial requirements. Like all Credit Unions we are owned by the community which we serve and exist solely to meet the needs of our members,” said Philip.