Rising prices are putting pressure on people to try and use less energy. But what are the most effective ways of cutting bills? We asked five experts for their practical advice.

1. Insulate your home

Upgrading loft insulation to current standards, typically 27–30cm thick for mineral wool, improves energy efficiency, comfort and long-term cost savings. It acts as a thermal barrier, as up to 25% of a home’s heat can escape through an uninsulated roof. Installing cavity wall insulation in older homes improves efficiency by reducing heat loss through walls by up to 35%.

Using draught excluders, keeping internal doors closed on cold days, and installing a smart energy controller also help retain warmth and optimise energy use. All these measures can help lower heating bills, maintain warmer indoor temperatures, reduce draughts, minimise condensation, and improve a home’s energy performance certificate rating.

The cheapest energy is the energy we do not use. That’s why the International Energy Agency describes energy efficiency as the “first fuel”. Buildings account for around 30% of global energy demand, so homes are a critical part of both affordability and energy security.

In the UK, 420,600 energy-efficiency measures were installed in 2024 through government support schemes. There is clearly strong demand for more measures like this.

Farooq Sher is a senior lecturer in sustainable energy engineering

2. Go fully electric

Almost everything in our house is now electric, including our heating, cooking and car. This makes environmental sense because electricity can easily be generated from low-emission sources, whereas gas, petrol and diesel can only really come from extracting and refining fossil fuels. In the UK, we generate electricity from a range of sources including solar, wind, tidal, and from burning gas.

Currently, close to 50% of the electricity on the national grid is from renewable sources. Providing heat from a heat pump has about 70% lower greenhouse gas emissions, compared with heat from a gas boiler.

As well as reducing emissions, electrification can reduce bills. Our heat pump replaced an old and relatively inefficient gas boiler, and our annual heating bill has fallen by about 10%. Though electricity is more expensive than gas, heat pumps can reduce bills because for every unit of electrical power they consume, they deliver between two and four times that in heat.

A well-designed and carefully installed system will improve performance. We upgraded our insulation at the same time, and in winter closed off the spare room completely. An added bonus of full electrification is that there’s no need to pay a gas standing charge, which can save about £128 per year.

Another thing to consider is using materials that reduce need for heating – for instance, double glazing. And try to minimise your demand for energy as much as possible, then install the smallest system which meets that demand. We’ve found that doing all of this leads to a warmer, nicer and cheaper home.

Stuart Walker is a research fellow in sustainabilty assessment

3. Increase your energy payments

The conflict in the Gulf is just the latest shock to the energy supply chain. And the tricky thing with supply chains is disruption takes time to be felt. Even if a peace deal sticks, consumers and businesses can still expect higher prices to ripple through the energy market for months.

As such, think about the behavioural economics of what’s known as “intertemporal choice” – your spending over time. People often excessively discount the future and focus on the present when choosing how to spend money. This is known as “present bias”.

Today, there are widespread expectations of higher energy prices, but (for now) they remain around pre-war prices. In the future – when the war is over – there will be widespread expectations of lower prices, but the current disruptions will still be rippling through the system. This mismatch between expectations and reality could leave people with a nasty surprise when their bill comes through.

So, pay it forward. Don’t fall into the trap of present bias. If you can, increase your energy bill payments today. Economists call this “smoothing out” your consumption. When higher bills bite, you’ll be (psychologically) better off for it.

Stuart Mills is a lecturer in economics

4. Sort out any draughts

In our home, we have removed the fireplace, blocked it completely and insulated inside it to cut out draughts. As it is now not so draughty, the heating isn’t required as much and we’re not losing heat through the chimney stack.

This has improved indoor air quality, partly because we no longer have to dispose of ashes and don’t have to do extra cleaning after fires. This is an indirect saving that some may not realise.

Another benefit is that we’re not exposing ourselves to particulate air pollution that results from open or stove-based fires. Home heating contributes significantly to urban air quality, and my motivation has been to improve both indoor and outdoor air quality.

I’m also not storing or buying and transporting fuel – another cost saving. I have bought a cargo ebike to commute to work, carrying my children and their belongings. It also has a bread basket on the front, which is fantastic for shopping and carrying bags. This has cut my short car trips.

We are fortunate to live in an area with good cycling infrastructure. I am aware these choices are not an option for everyone, especially those in rented or temporary accommodation.

Yvonne Ryan is an associate professor in environmental science

5. Crack on with home improvements

A good way to protect yourself against rising bills next winter is to crack on now with projects to make your home more energy efficient. One option is to stop the heat you have paid for escaping through your windows and doors.

The Energy Saving Trust estimates that upgrading your windows could save up to £140 a year. But research has shown that, while households frequently research the options and get quotes, they often stall at the final decision on a project and fail to go ahead.

One reason for this is over-reacting to “sludge” – the barriers that increase uncertainty and effort, such as difficulty finding information and contractors. This can overwhelm our understanding of the benefits of going ahead, leaving us stuck with the status quo.

But the good news is, it is perfectly possible to override these behavioural biases. Rising and volatile fuel bills may be the nudge we need to do that.

Jonquil Lowe is a visiting academic in economics

It’s worth checking to see if you could get it for free

Everyone in Scotland is entitled to free NHS dental check-ups. This includes routine review examinations.

However, some patients also qualify for completely free dental treatment. According to NHS Inform, your dentist will explain which treatments are available under the NHS and which are private.

This is so you can make an informed choice about your care and understand any costs. Treatments that you can receive on the NHS include:

• bridges
• crowns
• fillings
• root canal treatment
• preventive advice and treatment for gum disease
• orthodontic braces (according to strict criteria)
• extractions (tooth removal)
• dentures or false teeth

It notes: “Cosmetic procedures will usually need to be paid for privately.”

Who is entitled to free treatment on the NHS?

In Scotland, NHS treatment is free for:

• Everyone aged under 26
• People who are pregnant or have given birth in the last 12 months
• People with certificated exemption from patient charge because of income or receipt of certain benefits

It adds: “If you are exempt from patient charges during a course of treatment, tell the dentist and ensure that you bring the evidence with you. Around 40% of all patients are exempt from paying a contribution towards the cost of their NHS dental care.”

What is the NHS Low Income Scheme?

Some people may be able to get treatment at a reduced cost through the NHS Low Income Scheme (LIS). NHS Inform explains: “The LIS helps towards some or all of the cost of NHS patient charges for those who are not automatically entitled to free treatment, who may have difficulty in paying.

“Help under the scheme is income-related and based on an assessment of each person’s ability to pay.”

What is prior approval?

Your dentist may tell you that prior approval is needed before your treatment can begin. For certain treatments or higher-cost treatment plans, dentists must get approval from NHS National Services Scotland (NSS) Practitioner Services. This process can take some time and may slightly delay the start of your treatment.

Are all treatments available on the NHS?

Advertisement

Not all dental treatments are available on the NHS. Cosmetic treatments, like white fillings, tooth whitening, and dental implants, are usually only available privately. Your dentist can explain what is covered by the NHS and what is private.

You can also mix NHS and private treatment on the same tooth, for example, having an NHS root canal and a private white filling. Your dentist can give you an estimate of the costs.

Am I an NHS patient?

Around 95% of people in Scotland are registered for NHS dental care. If you’re not sure about your status, check with the dentist you last visited for routine treatment.

The NHS states: “NHS patients do not pay a regular fee or retainer to their dentist. There is also no charge for an examination.

“If you’re registered with a dentist providing NHS dental care, your practice will be happy to discuss your treatment plan and costs with you before any work is carried out.”

How to register with an NHS dentist

Not all dentists accept new NHS patients, so it’s important to ask whether they can register you as an NHS patient when you first contact them. You can find an NHS dentist in your area here or enquire with your local health board. It’s your responsibility to then register with the dentist.

Once you find a dentist who can register you as an NHS patient, you will need to give them some personal details. You will be asked for your:

• Name
• Address
• Date of birth
• Contact details

Once you have provided this, you will then be given an appointment for an enhanced clinical examination. The practice may place you on a waiting list for registration until you have had this examination, even if you are given an emergency appointment.

It cautions: “You’ll be asked to complete a full medical history form before your appointment, so please ensure that you bring an up-to-date list of all medicines. This medical history will need to be completed annually.

“If you want to register your child, you should do this at the same time you register yourself. You don’t have to wait until your child’s teeth grow in; you can register them as soon as they’re born.

“You don’t need to pay a deposit for an appointment to register.”

You can see the full list of dental treatments and their cost via the NHS Inform website.

During the November raid, Mr Kulwant SIngh Bhatia, the husband of Ms Akritta Bhatia, the Licence Holder, called the shop and was “very irate and shouting at the officer” according to a report to Ealing Council’s Licensing Sub-Committee. Mr Bhatia was supposed to be banned from being involved with the business from 2023 after it was found that he was selling illegal tobacco, the documents state.

Using your phone on the toilet could be more damaging than you might think

Advertisement

A gut specialist has delivered a stark warning urging people to “stop” scrolling on their phone while on the toilet. Spending extended periods sitting and browsing on the loo could present a significant health risk.

As smartphones have grown more widespread and sophisticated, people have increasingly grown accustomed to carrying them wherever they go. And this extends to the bathroom, with one YouGov survey revealing that 57 per cent of Britons frequently use their phone while sitting on the toilet.

While this might appear harmless, it could in fact be harmful to our bodies. In a clip posted to social media platform TikTok, Doctor Saurabh Sethi, a Harvard-trained gastroenterologist, said: “Stop scrolling through the phone while using the toilet.

“Hi, I’m a board-certified gastroenterologist, so hit that follow button for more such gut health tips.” First, he warned that this widespread habit could lead to haemorrhoids.

He said: “While it may seem harmless to scroll through your social media feed or answer some emails while on the toilet, it can actually have some serious consequences.

“First, you using your phone while doing number two can lead to prolonged sitting on the toilet, which can cause strain and pressure on your rectum and anus. This can lead to issues such as haemorrhoids, anal fissures, and even rectal prolapse.”

He added: “Another issue is that it can be a breeding ground for bacteria. Studies have found that an average smartphone is dirtier than a public toilet seat.

“Try avoiding scrolling while using the toilet, but if you can’t help it, at least have a disinfectant wipe around to clean the phone after you’re done with the business.”

According to the Mayo Clinic in the US, sitting and scrolling on the toilet is a common cause of haemorrhoids.

“The veins around the anus tend to stretch under pressure and may bulge or swell,” the clinic says. “Haemorrhoids can develop from increased pressure in the lower rectum due to sitting for long periods of time, especially on the toilet.”

Other causes of haemorrhoids include:

• Straining during bowel movements
• Having chronic diarrhoea or constipation
• Being obese
• Being pregnant
• Having anal intercourse
• Eating a low-fibre diet
• Regularly lifting heavy items

Symptoms of haemorrhoids will depend where they are but can include:

• Painless bleeding during bowel movements
• A haemorrhoid pushing through the anal opening, called a prolapsed or protruding haemorrhoid
• Itching or irritation in the anal region
• Pain or discomfort
• Swelling around the anus
• Bleeding
• A hard, discoloured lump near the anus

The Mayo Clinic adds: “If you have bleeding during bowel movements or you have haemorrhoids that don’t improve after a week of home care, talk to your health care provider.

“Don’t assume rectal bleeding is due to haemorrhoids, especially if you have changes in bowel habits or if your stools change in colour or consistency. Rectal bleeding can happen with other diseases, including colorectal cancer and anal cancer.

“Seek emergency care if you have large amounts of rectal bleeding, lightheadedness, dizziness or faintness.”

Farren Hales is wanted on recall to prison.

Suffolk Police are appealing for help to find a man who is wanted. Farren Hales, 41, is wanted on recall to prison.

Hales was last seen in Colchester and has links to both the Ely area of Cambridgeshire and to north London. He is described as being white, around 5’8″ tall, and of slim build.

He has short brown, greying hair, and stubble. If you have seen him or know where he could be, you should contact Suffolk Police.

Anyone with information should report it via the Suffolk Police website quoting crime number 37/18760/26 or call 101. You can also report anything anonymously via Crimestoppers by calling 0800555111.

In the event of an emergency, you should call 999.

To get more news and top stories delivered directly to your phone, join our new WhatsApp community. Click this link to receive your daily dose of CambridgeshireLive content.

We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.

Locals praise the town’s transport links and green spaces – but they’d like to see more added to the town

People who live in a ‘new’ Cambridgeshire town have praised its transport and green spaces – but they’d like to see more pubs and restaurants. Up until 26 years ago, Cambourne near Cambridge didn’t exist.

Since then, the town has grown with more people moving in, and more facilities opening. However, some residents still feel the town could have more. As part of the Exploring Cambridgeshire series, we spoke to residents about what it’s like to live in Cambourne.

Aaron Kersey, who has lived there since 2022, wants to see more pubs and restaurants in Cambourne. “We have three dentists, but only one pub,” said Aaron.

He added: “Something like another supermarket would also be good. However, it [Cambourne] has what you need. The road networks are fine and safe. The only thing it needs is a train station, but there is talk about one coming.”

A long-term resident, who wished to remain anonymous, likes Cambourne’s green spaces. He said: “It’s got quite a lot of good community things going on as well, like a lot of different clubs and activities.

“I think it’s also good for transport.” However, the man would also like to see other things come to the town. He added: “Things like a public swimming pool and a change of shops would be good. It would bring more footfall in.”

Michael Abbott moved to Cambourne around 10 years ago, and admitted its “great” transport. He said: “We have regular buses that take you to Cambridge, so you can get into the city centre quite easily.

“We have a good supermarket, but it would be good to see one more to add a bit more variety. Cambourne is also a cheaper place to live if you need to commute to Cambridge for work.”

Just like Aaron, Michael would like to see more places to eat and drink. He added: “The local pub is good, but it would be good to have another one, again for more variety.”

Advertisement

Kin Leu moved to Cambourne a few years ago with his wife and two children. He said: “My wife chose our house because we have two young children, and it’s close to bus stops. So, they can get on the bus safely.” Kin also wants to see more added to Cambourne.

He said: “For me, I would like one more petrol station and maybe another supermarket. I used to walk to Morrisons sometimes, but another supermarket would be nice.

“We have a good football pitch, but sports could be a bit better. A public swimming pool would be good.”

Christina Church has “no complaints” about living in Cambourne. She said: “Being in the centre means I am only a few minutes away from what I need, especially Morrisons.

“We have some fast food places like fish and chips and Domino’s, which are good.” Christina praises the transport, but also wishes the town could have a train station.

“If somewhere like Waterbeach can have one, why can’t we?,” added Christina. She said: “It’s a growing town and we need that sort of thing. It would also make it more desirable to live here.

“I also love the green spaces here. They are lovely to walk my dog around.”

“I don’t know [if Maddison will play this season], I don’t know yet. I don’t want to push too much because we lost Kudus in this way. I used to waiting the players when they are available, totally available to play and to restart the training. Because it’s better to lose one game more than to take a risk for another new injury.”

The Down native said he considered throwing his hat into the ring for the Derry job before deciding against it. He’ll share a sideline with the man he calls a “very good friend” later this evening at Find Insurance Celtic Park

Antrim boss Mark Doran said he was close to throwing his hat into the ring to succeed outgoing Derry manager Paddy Tally last autumn before deciding against it.

Ciaran Meenagh, someone Doran describes as a “very good friend”, ended up being the clear choice having already worked with Derry when he took over as interim manager following Rory Gallagher’s departure in 2023.

Doran took over from Andy McEntee and the Ulster SFC draw as pitted Antrim against Derry this evening.

Friendships will be put on hold for 70 minutes and Doran insists Derry have the best man for the job.

“It just didn’t feel right at the time. Make no mistake in my eyes Derry have the best man for the job,” stated Doran.

“It was close enough but it just didn’t feel right and you have to go with your gut and that’s just it.

“I think Derry now, at last, have got the right man in and the best man for the job and a man I know very well.”

“We know what we’re facing and, in my eyes, they’re still one of the best teams in Ireland.

“Again, it’s no coincidence they’re now starting to go well and they’re probably the most unluckiest team in Ireland winning five games and not getting promoted.

“I know how highly the Down boys rated Ciaran and I know what a good coach he is and I know, look at the end of the day it’s not me against him.

“It’ll be Antrim against Derry, but Ciaran would be a very good friend but I know Derry definitely have the right man but I know the size of the task ahead of us.”

He added: “If you ask a hundred people in a room I think there’d be 99 of them saying Derry will win.

“Derry are one of the top teams in Ireland and I do think they’re the unluckiest team but all we look to do is try and give the best version of ourselves and it’s a serious opportunity for Antrim because there are good players in Antrim.

“But it is a building project and we’re trying to take one step at a time. Small gains but look at the end of the day you’re hoping Antrim boys can seize the opportunity because it is a brilliant opportunity to go into Celtic Park.

“It probably will take us to have our best 70 odd minutes and maybe Derry to have an off day but look that’s why we all love football. There’s always that hope isn’t there?”

Want to see more of the stories you love from Belfast Live? Making us your preferred source on Google means you’ll get more of our exclusives, top stories and must-read content straight away. To add Belfast Live as a preferred source, simply click here.

Click here to sign up to our sport newsletter, bringing you the latest sports news, headlines and top stories

A federal judge has blocked a $6.2 billion merger of local television giants Nexstar Media Group and rival Tegna until an antitrust lawsuit is resolved.

U.S. District Court Chief Judge Troy L. Nunley made the ruling late Friday afternoon, finding that eight attorneys general and DirecTV were likely to prevail in their legal bid to stop the merger.

The deal, announced last year and approved by the Federal Communications Commission, would create a company that owns 265 television stations in 44 states and the District of Columbia, most of them local affiliates of one of the “Big Four” national networks: ABC, CBS, Fox and NBC.

U.S. District Court Chief Judge Troy L. Nunley in Sacramento, California, had already issued an emergency order blocking the deal for three weeks. On April 7, he heard arguments over whether that block should be extended until a lawsuit brought by attorneys general in eight states and DirecTV is resolved.

The attorneys general, all Democrats, and DirecTV contend the merger will lead to higher prices for consumers, stifle local journalism and that the deal runs afoul of federal laws designed to protect against monopolies.

Nexstar’s attorneys told the court the deal has already been reviewed and cleared by the FCC and the Department of Justice. They said the FCC order commits the company to expand local journalism and programming, not shrink it.

The merger needed the approval of the Republican Trump administration’s FCC because the government had to waive rules that limit how many local stations one company can own. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr said in March that the company had agreed to divest itself of six stations.

In his emergency temporary restraining order, the judge noted that the merger would make Nexstar the owner of two or even three of the “Big Four” local affiliates in 31 local television markets. Once that occurs, Nunley wrote, multichannel video programming distributors such as DirecTV would have to comply with Nexstar’s demands for higher broadcast fees or risk leaving subscribers potentially unable to watch things like Sunday NFL football games.