22nd Oct: I have been an npower customer for over 10 years now. I pay by monthly payment plan. I do not have a bank account and I have three children and a disabled partner. My last bill was £350 as I am on a standard tariff as I cannot pay by direct debit. Why are poor people being penalised all the time? Online tariffs are nearly 5p per KWH cheaper but you have to pay by direct debit. I am really struggling with my electric and I have cut down as much as possible but there is no other tariff available to me. Please tell me why we are being penalised living in fuel poverty?

Asked by Wendy from Yorkshire, 22/10/2009.

Hi Wendy - It's important you call us as soon as possible, there are many ways in which we can offer further help in reducing your bill. You may also be eligible to go on our Spreading Warmth tariff, our lowest available both online and offline. Please call our customer services team on 0808 172 6999

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