If debt has forced that dreaded red letter from a gas or electricity company to fall through your letterbox, you could expect a disconnection notice shortly afterwards.

Nearly 2.5 million households are in debt to their energy supplier at an average sum of £150.

In 2003, over 17,000 households were disconnected when their average debt amounted to just £50 per household. It can be difficult to figure out which bill to pay first when you're in serious debt, and you're faced with overwhelming debt problems to a stage where an IVA or bankruptcy is an option.

Since consumer debt in 2007 is at an all time high and energy prices do not seem to be dropping, disconnection levels will almost certainly double this year.

If debt is preventing you from paying your energy supplier, you should contact the company concerned. Ask if you can set up a repayment plan as suppliers are obliged to take their customers personal circumstances into account. They will find a suitable debt repayment option, even if your circumstances have reached the disconnection stage.

If you are unemployed, it may be worth considering paying for your energy through the Fuel Direct scheme which will allow energy payments to be deducted from state benefits.

EDF energy have a trust fund set up which offers financial assistance for debt problems, it is worth finding out if you are eligible.

Energy companies should also make customers aware of the many free debt help services available. These people will negotiate on your behalf to find amicable repayment structures and ease your financial worries. People do not realise that debt management companies are within easy reach. No-one need ever be alone with their money worries - unless they choose to be.