What to do if you can’t afford your energy bill

In an ideal world, we’d always have enough funds to cover our basic necessities, including energy bills. However, life can throw curveballs, and financial difficulties can arise unexpectedly. If you are a current or former professional footballer finding yourself unable to pay your energy bill, it’s essential to take proactive steps to address the situation rather than ignoring it. Here’s a quick guide on what to do next:

1. Don’t Ignore It: Ignoring the issue won’t make it go away. Acknowledge the situation and take action promptly.
2. Contact Your Energy Supplier: The first step is to get in touch with your energy supplier as soon as possible. Many suppliers offer support and assistance for customers facing financial difficulties. They may be able to offer flexible payment plans, provide advice on managing your energy usage, or direct you to relevant support schemes.
3. Check if You’re Eligible for Financial Assistance: In the UK, there are various financial assistance schemes available to help individuals struggling to pay their energy bills. These include the Warm Home Discount Scheme, the Winter Fuel Payment, and the Cold Weather Payment. Eligibility criteria vary for each scheme, so it’s worth checking if you qualify for any additional support.
4. Seek Independent Advice: If you’re unsure about your rights or options, consider seeking independent advice. The Players Foundation has an advisor who can help, or you can seek assistance from organisations such as Citizens Advice or the Money Advice Trust. They can provide impartial guidance on managing debt, negotiating with creditors, and accessing relevant support services.
5. Explore Energy Efficiency Measures: Improving the energy efficiency of your home can help reduce your energy bills in the long term. Consider simple measures such as installing energy-efficient appliances, improving insulation, and being mindful of your energy usage habits. Many energy suppliers offer advice and support on energy-saving initiatives.
6. Budget and Prioritise Expenses: Take a close look at your budget and prioritise essential expenses, including your energy bill. Cut back on non-essential spending where possible and explore ways to increase your income. Budgeting tools and financial management apps can help you track your expenses and identify areas where you can save money.
7. Consider Debt Relief Options: If you’re struggling with multiple debts, including your energy bill, it may be worth exploring debt relief options such as debt management plans, individual voluntary arrangements (IVAs), or debt consolidation. These solutions can help you manage your debts more effectively and work towards becoming debt-free. The Players Foundation can provide access to a Debt & Insolvency advisor to help explore these options.
8. Stay Informed: Keep yourself informed about your rights as an energy consumer and any changes to government policies or support schemes that may affect you. Stay in communication with your energy supplier and update them on any changes to your financial situation.
9. Seek Emotional Support: Dealing with financial difficulties can be stressful and overwhelming. Don’t hesitate to seek emotional support from friends, family, or support groups. Talking about your concerns can help alleviate some of the pressure and provide a fresh perspective on the situation.
10. Stay Positive and Take Action: Remember that financial difficulties are often temporary, and there are resources and support available to help you overcome them. Stay positive, take proactive steps to address the situation, and keep focused on improving your financial situation in the long term.

In conclusion, facing difficulty in paying your energy bill can be challenging, but it’s essential to take proactive steps to address the situation. By contacting your energy supplier, exploring financial assistance options, and seeking independent advice, you can work towards finding a solution that works for you. Remember, you’re not alone, and there are resources and support available to help you through this challenging time.