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UK utility debt hits £7bn; charity urges social tariff

6/10/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The U.K. National Audit Office said household utility debt has risen to over £7 billion, up 118% since 2021.
Only one-third of eligible broadband users and 39% of water customers know about social tariffs.
Energy customers with repayment plans owe about £1,000 less than those without.
StepChange Debt Charity urged a national social tariff and rapid Debt Relief Scheme for energy and water, citing poor communication and billing errors.

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Story summary

The U.K. National Audit Office said household utility debt has risen to over £7 billion, up 118% since 2021.
Only one-third of eligible broadband users and 39% of water customers know about social tariffs.
Energy customers with repayment plans owe about £1,000 less than those without.
StepChange Debt Charity urged a national social tariff and rapid Debt Relief Scheme for energy and water, citing poor communication and billing errors.