"Have you fallen behind on paying your energy bills?" That is the question regulator Ofgem is putting to millions of households across the country, as it urges anyone struggling to keep up with payments to seek free debt advice and financial support immediately.
The regulator has highlighted a range of help available through independent advisers, supplier hardship funds and government schemes. Central to its message is a Citizens Advice guide that spells out what support people can get when they cannot manage their energy costs.
Where to get free debt advice
According to Citizens Advice, the help a household can access depends on how they pay for energy, the type of fuel they use and whether they receive certain benefits. The dedicated guide covers grants, benefits, fuel vouchers and emergency assistance, and is available to anyone worried about their energy bills.
People on prepayment meters who cannot afford to top up may be able to obtain fuel vouchers. Others could apply for grants from major energy suppliers to clear outstanding debt, while some local councils operate schemes offering emergency assistance where a household is in immediate crisis.
Customers whose supplier does not run a hardship fund are advised to ask what other forms of support might be available. Ofgem says the key is to seek help early, rather than allowing debts to build up.
Supplier hardship funds and grants
Some of the UK's biggest energy companies operate hardship funds that can provide grants to eligible customers struggling with energy debt. These suppliers include:
- British Gas
- EDF
- E.ON Next
- Octopus Energy
- OVO
- Scottish Power
- Utilita
- Utility Warehouse
Citizens Advice also draws attention to the British Gas Energy Trust, which offers grants to people regardless of who supplies their energy. Applicants are required to receive debt advice before applying, and the trust can help clear energy arrears or provide other financial assistance.
While the trust is run separately from British Gas's commercial operations, it is one of the most widely known schemes of its kind. Customers of any supplier can apply if they meet the eligibility criteria.
Additional bill support schemes
Households are also being reminded to check whether they qualify for a range of broader support schemes. The Warm Home Discount, Cold Weather Payments and the Winter Fuel Payment can all help reduce the burden of energy costs, depending on individual circumstances.
Vulnerable customers may also be added to the Priority Services Register, which provides extra support for those who need additional assistance with their energy supply. The register is part of the safety net available to people in difficulty.
Ofgem's advice comes as many families continue to face pressure from high household bills. Charities have warned that energy debt remains at record levels, despite wholesale gas prices having fallen from the peaks seen during the energy crisis.
Why it matters now
The regulator is concerned that some households are struggling in silence, unaware of the support that exists. Falling behind on energy bills can lead to larger debts and greater financial strain, making it even harder to recover.
Ofgem is urging anyone worried about paying their bills to contact their supplier as soon as possible and to seek free independent advice. Energy suppliers are required to help customers who are in financial difficulty, and options such as payment plans, reduced payments and temporary hardship funding are often available.
By acting early, households can avoid the stress and long-term financial damage that unpaid energy bills can cause. Free advice from Citizens Advice, support from supplier trusts and government schemes all remain in place to help those in need.
