May 25, 2006. Energy Retail Association. Over 4,000 people in London have received valuable advice from the Home Heat Helpline, a new energy advice line, since it launched 6 months ago.

Yet with approximately 108,000 people in London paying more than 10% of their income on fuel bills, there are many more people in the region who could benefit from this new service.

The Home Heat Helpline (0800 33 66 99) , which is a not-for-profit telephone advice line, offering free advice and help to people worried about their gas and electricity bills , is urging more people in London to call the helpline to see how they could benefit.

Research has found that people could be missing out on £1,500 worth of benefits, because they are not aware of what they are entitled to, something the helpline is aiming to try and change.

Duncan Sedgwick, Chief Executive of the Home Heat Helpline said: "It's great news that over 4,000 people in the London have called the helpline and been able to benefit from the advice of our specially trained advisors.

However, I would urge anyone who is concerned about their heating bills to call the Helpline on 0800 33 66 99. Not only will they get lots of free advice and information - they could be eligible for financial assistance from their supplier or from the Government to help insulate their home and make their bills more manageable."

The Home Heat Helpline was set up in November 2005, and through specially trained advisors, provides callers with information and advice on cheaper payment schemes, grants available for insulating their homes, providing information on how people can register for extra services and to find out if they are entitled to additional government benefits.