The Consumer Council’s energy expert, Raymond Gormley, and the Energy Regulator, John French, are in the studio to discuss the rising cost of energy. As winter approaches and the weather turns colder many will be concerned about whether they can afford to have the heating on, or use electrical items. We explore what support is out there and what’s being done to keep costs down.

The Consumer Council’s Chief Executive, Noyona Chundur, explains their new Household Expenditure Tracker and how it shows people in Northern Ireland are struggling to pay for basics. 

As children return to school, we ask what makes a cost effective and nutritious lunchbox?

Energy Special

Linda McAuley champions the cause of consumers in Northern Ireland, helping them to solve their problems, make the right choices and avoid the pitfalls - contact the show with your consumer and benefits queries: Write to: OYB
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Electric Ireland pulls out of the domestic market in Northern Ireland - What does it mean for Consumers? The march of AI continues - this time the bots are taking over the PR Industry! The Competition and Markets authority tell us why filling up the tank on your car has been getting more expensive over the last few years, why Disability Benefits may be under threat from the government, the listener whose boots weren't made for walking - or anything else - because they never turned up and how safe is your pre-paid funeral plan?


AI, Electric and Fuel Prices

Linda is joined by Independent Travel Editor Simon Calder and Michelle Kelly from the Consumer Council to discuss consumer rights and top tips for stress free travel. What happens when you're blind and travelling with a guide dog. Andrew McConnell from CAA explains what the law says.  Hiring a car - how to avoid the pitfalls and not end up with unwelcome extras.  We hear from one young woman who told Disney her fiance had died early on the morning of their special trip and that's why she hadn't given them 72 hours cancellation notice. Disney refused to budge on a refund! As Great Victoria Street railway station closes in just a matter of days what happens to schools and commuters? And the £340 million question - Is the new Grand Centra Station on track to open this autumn?


May Day Travel Special

Ninety percent of us are worried about the cost of essentials - food, fuel, shelter and utilities. The consumer council share some tips on how to make your money go further. Carers NI tells us that this week’s Stormont budget could be catastrophic for unpaid Carers. Craig Harrison is in the studio with Linda to explain why.  Next week is a Bank Holiday weekend which is always a good time for DIY but if your skills are lacking could Bryson House and its Handyman scheme help out? And lightning strikes twice for one listener's BT line while another isn't yodelling when his hiking boots fail to arrive!


Carers, Consumers and Cost of Living

This week everything you ever wanted to know about your Rates bill but were afraid to ask. Sharon Magee, Chief Executive at Land & Property Services, explains all.  If you are struggling to pay your rates bill there is help available. Matt Cole from Advice NI joins Linda in the studio.  Stormont debates scrapping the Two Child limit for benefits but worries about the cost. Andy McClenaghan from the Cliff Edge coalition tells Linda that the money should be seen as an investment to combat child poverty.  And Parenting NI is rebranding ....What will Parenting Focus do differently – Muriel Bailey explains the new direction.  And finally waiting lists for MOT's that caused breakdown assistance problems for many Radio Ulster listeners but the AA and RAC have now agreed to help stranded drivers here temporarily. 


Rates, Parenting and Policy

There is still no sign of a Childcare strategy for Northern Ireland and we receive less government support for parents than anywhere else in the UK. Linda speaks to Casey McGivern from Melted Parents and Aoife Hamilton from Employers for Childcare about how parents are coping.  Do you know how to fill in a CV or job application? Consultant Helen Todd teaches Linda her to beat the robots and get to the interview stage.  And Linda talks to Laura Dowie from Timely Careers about the help and support available for those going back to work or changing career.  Finally your money may be safe in the Bank but can you get it out when you want? - not according to our listener John who is not at all happy. We discover how new Financial regulations can make it tricky to withdraw cash.

Energy Special

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