State pensioners across England, Scotland, and Wales are being urged to apply for financial support that could see them receive up to £2,000 towards their energy bills. British Gas has reopened its Energy Support Fund for the winter, targeting households struggling with energy debt or the threat of fuel poverty.
What is the Energy Support Fund?
The fund is designed to assist existing British Gas customers who are facing significant hardship. To be eligible, customers must have an energy debt of between £50 and £2,000 on a pre-payment meter, or between £250 and £2,000 on a credit account. This initiative is part of a wider £140 million support package from Centrica, the parent company of British Gas, which it calls the UK's largest voluntary energy support package.
Last winter, the scheme distributed more than £4.2 million in grants to vulnerable households, helping almost 6,000 households stay warm. The fund is administered through the British Gas Energy Trust, an independent charity funded solely by the energy supplier.
Leadership Calls for Action
Chris O’Shea, Chief Executive of Centrica, emphasised the company's commitment. "As winter approaches, we know that rising household bills are a real worry for many people across the UK," he said. "Tackling energy debt and fuel poverty is a priority for us and we’re making sure help is available when it’s needed most. We urge anyone who is worried about keeping their home warm this winter to apply to the fund."
Additional Support Available
Beyond the direct grants, British Gas is offering further avenues for assistance throughout the winter months:
- Post Office Pop-Ups: Advisors funded by the British Gas Energy Trust will be available at local British Gas Post Office Pop Ups. They can provide detailed support overviews, signpost to local organisations, check benefit entitlements, and offer free energy-saving advice.
- In-Person Account Help: British Gas customers can also receive direct, face-to-face help with their accounts at these pop-up locations.
- Support for All Suppliers: Importantly, customers of any energy supplier may be eligible for help through the Trust's Individuals and Families Fund (I&F). This separate fund provides grants of up to £1,700 for those struggling with energy debt, regardless of their provider.
The concerted effort highlights the ongoing pressure of high energy costs on pensioners and low-income households. British Gas's push to publicise these funds aims to ensure that those who need help most are aware of the financial support available to them during the coldest part of the year.
