Energy grants provided by the UK’s largest supplier are set to expire soon. The British Gas Individual and Families Fund will close its doors on Friday, March 8. It has been a lifeline for households struggling with energy debt since its establishment in 2021. However, the support won’t be available for much longer.
The End is Near
The fund, which was initially designed to assist British Gas and non-British Gas customers with credit energy account or pre-payment meter debt, will soon cease operation. If you have already submitted your application before March 4, make sure it is complete. Failure to provide any information requested by British Gas before the deadline will result in your application being declined.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the fund, you must meet certain criteria, including:
- Having energy debt up to £1,500 with a credit energy account or using a pre-payment meter in your primary residence
- The energy account must be in your name
- Residing in England, Scotland, or Wales
- Not receiving a grant from British Gas Energy Trust within the last two years
- Seeking a grant to clear outstanding debt
- Having electric and/or gas debt
- Facing fuel poverty
- Receiving help from a money advice agency
If your application is successful, your energy account will be credited with the grant.
Real-Life Testimonials
Farzana Ali, a mother of three who fell into debt during the pandemic, received over £1,000 of help from the British Gas fund. She expressed her relief and gratitude, stating, “I was so shocked when they said they were going to pay the whole debt for me. It was just such a relief, I can’t explain how relieved I felt.”
Act Now
To check your eligibility for the fund, you can visit the official British Gas website or attend one of the British Gas Post Office pop-up locations for personalized assistance and free money and energy advice. The locations where this service is available can be found on the British Gas website.
Additional Support from British Gas
If you are a British Gas customer, you are eligible for extra support through the Energy Support Fund. This support is available regardless of whether you have a credit account or a pre-payment meter.
What is the Energy Support Fund?
Exclusively for British Gas customers, the Energy Support Fund provides grants ranging from £250 to £1,500 to individuals with electric or gas debt. To be considered for a grant, you must meet the following criteria:
- Reside in England, Scotland, or Wales
- Not have received a grant from British Gas Energy Trust in the last 12 months
- Have electric and/or gas debt between £250 and £2,000
- Be in fuel poverty or facing it
- Be seeking a grant to clear an outstanding debt on your current or open energy account in your name or be a member of that household
Proof of income will be required during the application process, along with details of household outgoings to assess fuel poverty status.
Explore Other Options
Most energy suppliers offer discretionary grant schemes to assist their most vulnerable customers. The grants vary by supplier, and the exact amount you’ll receive depends on your financial circumstances. Here are some other energy suppliers offering grants:
EDF
EDF provides support to customers who are experiencing debt or financial difficulties. The EDF customer support fund can also assist with the purchase of energy-efficient white goods to reduce long-term bills. To be eligible for a cash grant, you must be an EDF customer and sign up for the Priority Services Register. Applications can be submitted online, and there is currently no end date for applying.
Scottish Power
Scottish Power offers grants of up to £750 from its hardship fund to help with energy bills. If you receive Income Support, Job Seekers Allowance, Pension Credit, or Employment and Support Allowance, you may qualify for assistance. Apply online and expect a response within five working days. Scottish Power accepts applications throughout the year.
Octopus Energy
Octopus Energy provides support through its Octopus Energy Assist Fund, which includes cash grants. They also offer the loan of a thermal imagery camera to identify heat leaks in your home and free electric blankets. If you’re struggling with your bills, reach out to Octopus Energy for assistance. The Octo Assist Fund is open for applications, and there is no deadline for customers to apply.
E.ON
Both E.ON and E.ON Next customers can apply for cash grants to help with their energy costs. While E.ON does not have strict eligibility criteria, the fund aims to assist as many people as possible, prioritizing those with the greatest needs. To complete the application, you’ll need your energy account number and a recent meter reading. Apply online via the EON website and provide evidence of your circumstances, such as proof of household income or DWP benefit payments.
If you need free debt help, several organizations can assist you. Reach out to Citizens Advice, StepChange, National Debtline, or the Debt Advice Foundation for support and information. Avoid using claims management firms that promise to write off your debt in exchange for a large upfront fee. There are other options available that don’t require payment.
Remember, the energy grants from the UK’s biggest supplier will soon come to an end. Act now to secure the support you need. For more details, visit F5mag.com.