A major UK energy firm is offering struggling households up to £1,700 to help pay off energy debts. British Gas will provide hard-up households with financial assistance through its Energy Trust's Individuals and Families Fund, and you do not have to be a British Gas customer to apply.
Who Can Apply?
The scheme, established in 2021, aims to help households struggling with energy costs. It is open to both British Gas and non-British Gas customers, meaning customers of OVO, EDF, EON, Scottish Power, and Octopus also qualify.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for support, applicants must have received money advice within the last six months and have an energy debt between £50 and £1,700 on a prepayment meter. However, you will not qualify if you have received a grant from the British Gas Energy Trust within the last two years.
Real-Life Impact
The grants have already helped individuals like Mr H, a 56-year-old registered disabled ex-armed forces veteran living in a local authority property with his non-dependent disabled child. He relies on Employment and Support Allowance and Personal Independence Payment from the Department for Work and Pensions, as both he and his child are unable to work. Mr H suffers from multiple serious health conditions, including combat PTSD and spinal damage requiring a walking aid. His health is unlikely to improve, limiting his ability to increase his income. With assistance from Citizens Advice, he applied for support and was awarded an energy grant of £1,290 from the British Gas Energy Trust.
