Gas and electric bills are expected to rise again the New Year it has been warned.

An increase to the energy price cap is set to be announced next week.

Energy market analysts Cornwall Insight has forecast that a typical annual household bill will go from £1,834 to £1,931 in the new year, before falling slightly in April.

Advice providers, looking to help people manage their finances in the light of another rise are urging people to get in touch.

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Advice Direct Scotland said it is already seeing more people coming forward.

Hazel Knowles, energy lead for Advice Direct Scotland, said:
“We have already witnessed high demand from households across Scotland seeking assistance with their energy bills.
“Costs are significantly higher than they were before the energy crisis began, and this latest warning ahead of next week’s announcement means that many Scots face a challenging winter ahead.
“We urge people across Scotland not to struggle alone – our expert advisers can provide free advice on the support available.”

Meanwhile, Citizens Advice Scotland said the rising cost of household energy is the biggest financial worry for people across the country.

It also found that more than 1.4 million people in Scotland are worried about being able to adequately heat their home this winter.

CAS has launched its ‘worried this winter’ campaign encouraging people to seek help.

Derek Mitchell, Citizens Advice Scotland chief executive said: “As the weather turns cold it’s perfectly understandable people are worried about their energy bills and keeping their homes warm.

“We’ve faced the worst cost of living crisis in living memory and people have had their financial resilience worn down.

“Our new campaign says to people it’s okay to be worried this winter, because the CAB network is here to help you regardless of your background or circumstances, our advice is free, impartial, and confidential.”

Advice Direct Scotland advisers are on freephone 0808 196 8660, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm, and further details can be found at www.energyadvice.scot

For more details about Citizens Advice Scotland visit www.cas.org.uk/worried