A number of energy suppliers have announced plans to post top-up cards loaded with credit for those who need it.
However not all energy companies have committed to that course of action and many are dealing with issues on a case-by-case basis.
It is recommended that customers contact their supplier regarding their circumstances, preferably via email or online chat where possible to leave phone lines open to the most vulnerable.
Meanwhile the Citizens Advice Bureau has released the following advice:
Coronavirus - if you can't top up your prepayment meter
Tell your supplier if you can't get to a shop to top up because you're ill with coronavirus or following guidance to ‘self-isolate'. You'll find their contact details on their website or on your bill.
They'll try to help you find other ways to keep your energy supply connected. For example:
- let someone else top up for you
- add funds to your account
- send you a pre-loaded top-up card
You'll need to pay back any credit your supplier gives you - ask them when and how you'll need to do this.
If your meter is outside and it's safe for you to get to it, it's a good idea to leave it unlocked. This means someone else could top it up for you.
Cllr Chris Hobson, Middlesbrough Council's Executive Member for Finance and Governance, said: "As it stands energy companies are reacting in different ways and at different speeds to deal with this unprecedented situation.
"The advice to those with prepayment meters is to check with your supplier to see what they can do to help during this period and to continue to follow the lockdown rules and stay safe."
The latest advice from Government and Public Health England can be found at https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus