A Southend hospice says it is paying over 80% more on its energy bills due to current cost of living crisis.

Haven Hospice, which provides nursing and care to both children and adults with complex or incurable conditions, has seen its yearly energy bill rise by a whopping £34,500 despite using all renewable energy sources.

Both its Little Havens Hospice on Daws Heath Road, Benfleet, and Fair Havens hospice on Priory Crescent in Southend have been affected by the hike in bills which happened at the start of April this year.

Steve McClure, head of facilities at Havens Hospices, said their commitment to more renewable sources has had no effect. Energy bills have now increased from an average of £40,500 per year to £75,000.

He said: “The rise in energy prices has had a noticeable impact here at Havens Hospices. We use suppliers who generate 100% renewable energy as part of our commitment to reducing the charity’s carbon footprint, however this hasn’t reduced costs.

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“The charity has a dedicated group of colleagues who come together regularly, discussing ways we can make energy savings.

“Progress is being made in many areas, such as changing all lighting to LED and ensuring vital equipment like boilers and underfloor heating are working as efficiently as possible.”

He added: “However, there will always be a need to use energy at the hospices to ensure they are warm and well-lit for the patients and their families staying at Fair Havens and Little Havens.”

The news comes as business secretary Kwasi Kwarteng called on the government called on energy companies to stop hiking customers direct debits within three weeks or face punishment.

But with another increase expected later this year Mr McClure said the hike in energy process meant they would have to rely on the generosity of their supporters in order to foot the bill.

He added: “As all our care is free of charge, these price increases mean we need to raise more money from our local community through kind donations, events, gifts in Wills, charity shops and initiatives like our weekly lottery.

“We’re so grateful for every gift given to us, with 71p in every pound supporting our care and the services needed to provide it.”

To make a donation to Havens Hospices visit: www.havenshospices.org.uk/donate.