British Gas customers facing fuel poverty and worried about the upcoming energy price hike only have until the close of business today (Thursday) to claim up to £750 to help pay their gas and electricity bills.
The British Gas Energy Trust provides two funds which may be able to help those in debt write-off their outstanding balance, however, the 'Individuals and Families fund' which offers financial support to people from other energy suppliers is now closed.
And before you can make a last-minute application to the Trust for financial support, it stipulates that you should have already contacted your energy supplier, Local Money Advice Agency, or an online debt and money advisor such as Citizens Advice Scotland, StepChange or Turn2Us for help and advice.
What is the British Gas Winter Fund?
This is a £2 million fund to help the most financially vulnerable British Gas customers who are struggling to pay their bills, on top of support already available to them.
The Winter Fund was set up in response to the increasing cost of living and rising inflation, including Ofgem’s upcoming price cap increase of 54%.
Through the fund thousands of eligible British Gas customers with fuel debt of £250 to £750 are able to apply for grants, to help pay towards their energy bills over the coming months.
The fund will close on March 31 while funding is still available.
How do I apply?
British Gas customers will be contacted by email or letter to let them know they may be eligible, and they can also apply online through the website.
You need to be a British Gas customer to apply for this fund.
To be considered for a grant you must meet the following criteria:
- You live in Scotland, England or Wales
- You must be seeking a grant to clear an outstanding debt on a current or open gas, electricity or dual fuel energy account in your name or be a member of that household, the energy account must relate to your main residence
- You have electric and/or gas debt between £250 - £750
- You do not have savings above £1,000
- You must be in or facing Fuel Poverty
In order to support your application, you will need the following:
- Proof of all household income
- A meter read for your gas and/or electricity account
- Help for other energy customers
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