In a new regular column, MoneyHelper will share financial guidance and practical ways you can save cash without breaking a sweat.

As of October 1, the Ofgem Price Cap increased by 10 per cent, from £1,568 to £1,717 per year.

This will probably mean that your monthly energy bills have gone up. However, there are ways to reduce this cost.

Living in the North West, James Kelly, Regional Manager for the Money and Pensions Service, understands the region’s specific challenges and offers some suggestions on how you may be able to cut your energy bills.

Switch tariffs

Despite the Price Cap increase, several lower-rate tariffs are available. Review your current bill to see if you're overpaying for gas and electricity.

Compare your costs with other suppliers to find a better deal but check for any exit fees before switching.

Make sure to claim

If you're over State Pension Age and eligible for Pension Credit, you could receive up to £300 through the Winter Fuel Payment. All eligible Pension Credit claims received up to December 21 can be backdated to receive the Winter Fuel Payment.

Visit MoneyHelper.co.uk to find the latest information on which discounts are available to help with energy costs.

James Kelly, Regional Manager for the Money and Pensions ServiceJames Kelly, Regional Manager for the Money and Pensions Service (Image: MoneyHelper)

Reduce where you can

Organisations like the Energy Saving Trust have lots of tips on how to save money on your energy bills.

Visit their website to find the tips and support that will most benefit you.

If you live with other people, have a conversation with them about the energy-saving hacks you can do around the house. Talk to your family members or housemates about making an effort to reduce your bill together.

Help is available

Struggling to pay your bills can be worrying, but there is help available.

Get in touch with your supplier to ask for help before you miss a payment.

If you are struggling with money or repaying a debt, there are options. These include reviewing bill payment plans, taking payment breaks, or having longer to repay what you owe.

MoneyHelper has free tools, including the 'Bill Prioritiser' tool, which helps understand which bills and payments to deal with first. Find out more at moneyhelper.org.uk.