British Gas begins sending out £2,000 payments to energy customers

The British Gas is sending out £2,000 grants to customers and energy bill payers who are struggling. The British Gas Trust has officially reopened its Energy Support Fund for applications as we head deeper towards Christmas and into the New Year.

The Energy Support Fund is available to British Gas customers with credit and pre-payment meter accounts, offering grants of up to £2,000 to help clear outstanding energy debt. This fund complements the already open Individuals and Families Fund, which assists both British Gas and non-British Gas customers in reducing energy debt, ensuring broad access to financial assistance.

A recent survey of 2,000 adults conducted by British Gas as part of the Post Office pop-up outreach programme revealed that 39% struggle to manage their bills, yet nearly half (45%) have not sought help. Many people avoid seeking assistance due to perceived ineligibility (34%), stigma (28%), and lack of information (26%).

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With winter ahead, 42% are worried about managing their finances. Jessica Taplin, CEO of the British Gas Energy Trust, stated: “This winter is likely to be as challenging as the last, and the British Gas Energy Trust are committed to helping people get back on top of their energy bills before the really cold weather arrives. The reopening of the Energy Support Fund offers eligible households an opportunity to clear up to £2,000 of energy debt, helping ensure that people can keep their homes warm and healthy this winter.”

Support includes Debt Relief Grants which provides eligible households with grants of up to £2,000 to clear energy debt, as well as emergency small grants in the form of fuel vouchers provided through our community support programme and trusted partners for immediate energy needs.

Its Community Support Programme will fund over 41 charities across Britain, including Citizens Advice offices, to deliver budget planning, benefits guidance and energy efficiency advice. And its White Goods Programme offers essential appliances are available to qualifying households through our community support programme.