Households seeking bills aid to soar 20%

THE number of cash-strapped households seeking emergency help from the State to pay gas, electricity and heating bills will increase by at least 20% by the end of the year.

In spite of the continued economic boom, the numbers seeking urgent assistance at community welfare clinics has risen by 16% between 2004 and 2005, according to Department of Social and Family Affairs figures.

Community welfare officers said in the past year they have noted a continuing increase in low-income families who can’t afford basic bills like gas and electricity.