Britain’s public health officials urged the government on Friday to take immediate action to address skyrocketing energy costs, saying that this will increase the number of illnesses and deaths each year associated with cold houses.
The National Health Service Confederation wrote to government representatives stating that rising expenses will force many individuals to choose between foregoing meals in order to heat their houses or staying in wet, chilly conditions this winter.
According to the organization’s chief executive Matthew Taylor, health leaders took the initiative to write to the government and make an “unusual intervention” since the U.K. was “facing a humanitarian crisis” as a result of the public health hazards associated with growing fuel prices.
Due to Russia’s conflict in Ukraine, which is already reducing global oil and natural gas supplies, the average U.K. family fuel bill has increased by more than 50% so far in 2022. In October, when the average cost is anticipated to reach 3,500 pounds ($4,300), there will be another increase. Inflation in the UK reached a record 40-year high of 10.1% in July, according to official numbers released this week.
According to Taylor, the inability to pay for food and heat a home will “leave an irreparable scar on local communities” and “lead to outbreaks of illness and sickness over the country and deepen health inequalities.”
He issued a warning that this will increase the strain already being placed on hospitals and public health systems, which are preparing for a challenging winter.
In his words, “Health leaders are unequivocal that this would result in a public health emergency unless quick action is done by the government.”
Numerous requests for the government to stop payments or assist citizens with their finances have been made, but ministers have stated that no action will be taken until the Conservative Party chooses a new prime minister to succeed Boris Johnson. On September 5, the winner of the Conservative leadership race will be declared.
Authorities claim to have laid aside billions of pounds to provide public subsidies to those in need. Over the winter, the majority of homes will also receive 400 pounds ($474) to help with energy costs.
“The NHS Confederation stated that additional assistance is required for individuals who are unable to afford energy prices that have increased by about 80%.
