COPELAND residents are being offered help to get the best value for their gas and electricity.

During Big Energy Week, from October 31 to November 6, Citizens Advice Copeland will be helping people cut their energy costs by following a three-step rule - check, switch and save.

People are encouraged to check their current tariff and compare it with other suppliers, before switching to a cheaper deal if available. They are also given tips on making sure they’re saving energy in their home.

Citizens Advice Copeland’s free energy saving event will take place at Whitehaven Library on Thursday, November 3 between 10-1pm.

Using Citizens Advice’s online energy price comparison tool, advisers can show people how to check they’re on the best tariff for their needs or if there’s a cheaper deal with a different supplier.

People can learn about making their home more energy efficient, for example by getting cavity wall insulation, draught excluders or double glazing. Advisers will be suggesting how to avoid using extra energy by not leaving the TV on standby or leaving lights on.

Customers can also check if they are eligible for a discount from their supplier, for example if they are claiming certain benefits.

Those who can’t make the event can still follow Big Energy Saving Week’s three-step rule of check, switch, save at home. They can use Citizens Advice’s online price comparison tool to work out if they can find a cheaper energy deal elsewhere, or contact Citizens Advice for help.

Shelley Hewitson, chief officer of Citizens Advice Copeland, said:

“Checking your energy tariff and switching to a cheaper deal is one of the quickest and easiest ways to cut your bills.

“Big Energy Saving Week is a great opportunity to get expert advice on how you can make savings before winter starts, from changing energy supplier to insulating your home.

“We would urge everyone to come down to the event, use our price comparison tool or contact our service for advice so they can start making savings .”

*Also, Citizen Advice Copeland is aiming to change its memorandum and articles and needs to hold an emergency general meeting (EGM).

They are aiming to ensure all members are aware of the meeting, which will be held on Wednesday, November 23 at 2pm at its Whitheaven offices at Tangier Buildings, before its AGM at 3pm.

Shelley said: "Although we are in the process of contacting our members we want to ensure that everyone is notified and those who we don't have listed are given the opportunity to attend and vote.

"It would be really good to speak to any members, introduce them to our service now and find out how they contributed to the Citizens Advice service in the past.''