ESTABLISHING a local energy supply company in Poole could help the thousands of “fuel poor” families in the borough, according to a council report.

The latest statistics show a staggering 4,800 homes in the town were in fuel poverty in 2011.

But a report produced by staff at Borough of Poole outlines a pioneering way to tackle the problem.

It suggests if the council was to set up a local energy supplier, residents would save money on their energy bills.

The report states: “A local energy company would be able to offer an alternative to the traditional ‘big six’ energy companies and should be able to reduce the price of existing energy, helping Poole residents save money and avoid fuel poverty.”

The implementation of the Localism Act in 2011 enabled local authorities to set up their own energy supply companies.

The report continued: “Energy suppliers are developing offers for local authorities which will enable them to set up a local energy supply company without the burdens of regulatory compliance.

“The Carbon Management Programme [Borough of Poole’s programme aimed at reducing carbon emissions] is currently determining the details of the offers and will ascertain whether any would be suitable for Poole.”

The report is due to be considered by the council’s Communities Overview and Scrutiny Committee today.

It states once the option has been fully investigated, a further report will be issued to councillors for their consideration.

Richard Bristow, manager at Poole Citizens’ Advice Centre, said thousands of people seek advice from the centre every year after struggling to meet the cost of living.

He said more than half of the people the centre deals with are suffering from indicators of fuel poverty.

He urged anyone who needs help to manage their finances to address the issue at the earliest opportunity.

“All energy suppliers have an obligation to provide some assistance so the first step is to contact your supplier and see what scheme is available,” he said.

“People should write out a budget and if they are struggling they should seek advice.

“There are various agencies across Dorset that can help, including the CAB.”

To find your local Citizens’ Advice Bureau go to citizensadvice.org.uk