A recent survey of 2,000 adults conducted by Smart Energy GB has revealed that 43% are now more likely to seek support if they are struggling financially due to rising costs. The increase in prices of essentials such as energy and food has prompted 74% to face their own financial difficulties head-on. Rugby league stars Jamie Jones-Buchanan, Alex Walmsley, and Amy Hardcastle have teamed up with Smart Energy GB to encourage people to open up and talk about their energy concerns.
The study shows that previously, 29% of people would have ignored their financial worries. With 42% anxious about paying energy bills, 18% worried about eating out, and 12% concerned about buying new clothes, the financial strain is palpable. Since opening up about their struggles, 33% of those who did report feeling less stressed, and 31% felt more in control of their energy spending after speaking to their energy supplier and having a smart meter installed.
Amy Hardcastle, who plays for Leeds Rhinos and England, shared her experience: "One of my biggest challenges was taking time away from rugby to have my daughter. Now I'm a mum to a thirteen-year-old, a head coach, and I play for Leeds Rhinos and England. Juggling all that can be difficult. Having a smart meter helps me stay in control of my energy bills as I know what I'm spending day-to-day."
The survey found that three in five adults (60%) have at least some financial worries, while only 14% have none at all. Since the cost of living crisis began in 2021, 40% of people have dipped into their savings to make ends meet, 22% have sold belongings, and 15% have taken on an additional job to boost their income. The OnePoll figures reveal the extent of the financial strain many are facing.
Despite these challenges, the research found that 78% of adults are open to talking about financial worries with friends, 83% with family, and half with colleagues. Meanwhile, 58% are open to having a financial conversation with their energy company, although four in 10 are not familiar with the ways their energy supplier can help.
Phillippa Brown from Smart Energy GB emphasized the importance of talking about financial worries: "It's clear that talking about worries and concerns can be a real relief and helps people overcome challenges. Most people agree it's important to talk to someone if you are worried about your finances. The cost-of-living crisis has helped to break down some of the stigma around financial difficulty."
The partnership with Rugby League aims to encourage anyone worried about an energy bill to talk to their supplier and request a smart meter. Along with the in-home display, smart meters help households track how much energy they use and find simple ways to reduce it.
