Millions don't plan to turn on heating this winter

More than two million UK households are bracing for a winter without central heating, a staggering 22 percent rise on last year. The high figure is driven by fears over escalating energy bills. The stark reality is particularly acute for those living alone, with one in ten solo residents planning to forgo traditional heating methods. Even families with young children are affected, as five per cent of households with younger offspring indicate they will not switch on their heating.

- Josie Clarke, The Independent

Overall, more than half (54 per cent) of those unable to adequately warm their homes attribute this struggle directly to the relentless surge in living costs, according to a survey of 2,000 people conducted for comparison site Uswitch.

Almost half of those not turning on their heating (45 per cent) are relying on methods such as wearing extra layers, hot water bottles and heated blankets to keep warm. A fifth (21 per cent) are using alternatives to central heating including portable heaters, log burners and open fires. However, more than three quarters of households (77 per cent) are worried about being cold this winter due to high energy prices, with one in six (16 per cent) being “very worried”.