StepChange is urging people to seek help if they are struggling with their finances before the colder weather sets in.
The largest provider of debt advice and solutions in the UK, StepChange Debt Charity, is urging people to prepare their finances ahead of winter, after a new survey indicated the cost of living is still putting pressure on household budgets.
The YouGov poll, commissioned by StepChange, revealed that almost one in three adults (31%) – around 17 million people – are worried about their ability to pay their energy bill in the next six months.
The research also found that one in four adults (23%),said that the recent rise in Ofgem’s energy price cap from October, will make it harder to pay their energy bills. This comes as average energy arrears for StepChange clients in August 2025 stands at £2,554.
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StepChange is urging anyone worried about their finances to get in touch for independent, confidential and impartial advice on 0800 138 1111.
The charity has also shared eight steps to start following now to get ahead of winter.
Assess your budget
Compare your incomings and outgoings, and where savings can be made to maximise your available funds. Use any funds you have spare to pay down debts with the highest rates of interest, or look to save for a rainy day, or future expense. Template budgets are available on the StepChange website.
Check what you are owed
People often do not realise they can access reductions in their bill payments or increases in benefit entitlements. Use a benefits calculator like StepChange’s to check you are getting your full allowance. In 2024, StepChange’s benefits calculator found over £9 million extra for users in monthly benefits and has already had over 10,000 users this year to date.
Fix your energy tariff
As the energy price cap has gone up and prices will increase from October, the best time to fix your rate is now.
Plan for the festive period
Now is the time to start setting aside small amounts to avoid a debt hangover in January. Budgeting ahead can help you manage costs more easily and reduce the temptation to borrow later. If you do need to borrow, try to pay it off as soon as possible.
Seek help from your creditor
Your creditor has a legal responsibility to support those in financial difficulty. Many offer temporary payment plans or hardship options, but you need to let them know early.
Reach out to your energy company
Energy providers have dedicated support for customers who are struggling. This could include payment plans, hardship funds, or access to grants, so contact them as soon as possible to assess your options.
Build financial resilience
Even small, regular savings can help create a buffer for unexpected costs. Automating savings and building an emergency fund can make you more resilient in the face of future shocks.
Don’t wait, get help from a debt advisor
People often wait too long to get help, or don’t even know what help is available. Free, confidential debt advice from organisations like StepChange can make all the difference.
Vikki Brownridge, CEO of StepChange Debt Charity, said: “The winter months can be especially tough for our wallets – simply starting to use the heating and turning on the lights earlier quickly adds up, not to mention the festive period and the additional costs that will bring for millions.
“That’s why we’re encouraging consumers to get ahead of winter and make plans for what tends to be a tougher period financially. Simply making a budget and assessing your incomings and outgoings each month can be a huge step towards understanding how you can best pay down debts, manage large expenses, or build savings for a rainy day.
“If you find yourself struggling with your finances, a debt advice charity like StepChange can help with free, confidential and impartial guidance.”
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