Having highlighted this issue through her office in North Belfast, it has become apparent that this is a more widespread issue seemingly due to energy suppliers not holding the correct personal information for residents.

The current deadline on redeeming the vouchers is 31 March.

Nuala has said: “To implement the current deadline would be totally unfair, taking into consideration just how many households have seen the delivery of the voucher delayed.

“I’ve been working with constituents in North Belfast who are finding themselves in this tough situation, particularly those in social housing and others in new developments. For example, we have seen cases of vouchers being issued to the wrong address and vouchers being issued with the wrong name, with the correct recipient being told there is nothing that can be done. It’s just not good enough.

“We’d like to make clear however that this issue is not just with those in new developments, but is a much more widespread situation. Surely there should have been a plan B for those who appear to have been left out of the distribution. I am reiterating my call for anyone who has been affected by this to please get in touch.

“In the meantime however the administrative issues causing this delay are still ongoing, and so it’s essential that the deadline is extended so that people are given every opportunity to access this vital support.”

Alliance North Down MP Stephen Farry added: “This issue is of the utmost importance, and I have raised it directly with the UK Government, having submitted a question to the Department for Energy, Security and Net-Zero requesting that the deadline be extended.

“No one should miss out on what could be very much-needed help with their energy bills.”