The National Audit Office has issued a report on vulnerable customers within the regulated sectors of water, energy, telecommunications and financial services.
The key findings are as follows:
- The number of vulnerable consumers is potentially high, and many conditions that may cause vulnerability are projected to increase.
- The impact on individuals of being in a vulnerable position can be significant and cuts across many services.
- The problems faced by vulnerable consumers can potentially increase their reliance on public services such as benefits or care.
- The regulators have improved their understanding of vulnerability in each sector.
The full report can be read here.