CUSTOMERS forced to use pre-payment electricity meters get a “much poorer service” as they have little choice on tariffs, according to Wyre Forest Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB).

The community charity has pointed out that despite paying an average of £80 a year more than customers on direct debit, pre-payment meter customers also have to pay more in winter as costs cannot be spread throughout the year.

Kate Bennett, manager of Wyre Forest CAB, said: “Our research shows that 16 per cent of pre-payment meters are cut off in winter either because the customer cannot afford to buy more energy or they are unable to top up their meter.

“This means that expensive food can be lost as a freezer de-frosts and vulnerable people become very cold.

“One client only had biscuits to feed his daughter as he had no money to feed his meter to cook food and stay warm.”

The bureau also claims pre-payment meter customers have limited top up options and often have meters with faulty keys.

Mrs Bennett said: “Our clients tell us that they have to pay £20 a week more for gas in winter though benefits are fixed through the year.

“What we really need is a debt holiday for pre-pay customers – as Scottish Power offered their customers last year – and CAB is writing to all energy companies to get them to make an offer in 2015 as prepay customers pay so much more.

“This would be a real bonus for vulnerable families.”

For more information, or to make an appointment at Wyre Forest CAB, call 01562 60194.