Over 58,000 vouchers issued to support energy costs in the region for those with pre-payment meters have not been redeemed, new government data shows.

Data released this month evidence that out of over 230,000 vouchers issued to vulnerable households only 171,750 have been used in the months of October, November and December 2022.

The scheme, first launched in October of last year, sees the most vulnerable households in the UK receive an automatic discount on their energy bills, totalling to a £400.

National Energy Action Head of Policy, Matt Copeland, said: “The North East is a region with higher than average fuel poverty, according to government figures, so it’s essential that anyone struggling there accesses this vital support.”

He added: “We urge anyone who has not yet received their vouchers to contact their energy supplier immediately. You can also get vouchers resent to you if you miss the 90-day deadline to redeem them.”

Ian Lavery, Labour MP for Wansbeck and member of the Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy Committee said the data is “deeply concerning”.

He said: “26%, or almost 60,000 vouchers, is a huge number and to think that for one reason or another people in desperate need of support with their energy bills are not redeeming them is a big worry.”

“My team and I are more than happy to work alongside the local authorities to help bring these numbers up and ensure that everyone is getting all the support they are entitled to during a difficult period.”

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The scheme has so far provided £530 million to households across the country, with the current national redemption rate of vouchers for those on pre-payment meters standing at 76%.

Energy Security Secretary Grant Schapps said: “The help we’ve put in place means we are covering around half of most household’s energy bill this winter - this is an unprecedented level of support.”

He added: “But many households are yet to redeem the vouchers they are entitled to and I want energy companies to redouble their efforts to get the support to those who need it.”

This news comes as Ofgem have today (February 27th) lowered the energy price cap to £3,280 from April.

However, consumers will still see a rise in bills due to the planned cut of government support, including the £400 energy support bill vouchers.

Households wishing to redeem remaining vouchers must do so by the 30th June, and can find more information here.