British Gas is set to give a number of households up to £2,000 from today. It follows the loss of the Winter Fuel Payment, which was worth up to £300.
The energy provider's Energy Support Fund, launched this week, aims to help customers struggling with their bills. Successful applicants, including younger workers and pensioners, could receive a grant of up to £2,000 to clear energy debts.
That's an increase of £500 from last year's offer. To be eligible, applicants must live in England, Scotland or Wales and have an energy debt between £50 and £2,000 on a pre-payment meter or £250 to £2,000 on a typical credit account.
They also need to be 'at risk of fuel poverty', have received money advice assistance in the past six months and not have received a grant from British Gas in the past 12 months. The scheme is exclusive to British Gas customers, with those using other suppliers advised to apply to their own firm's scheme.
The initiative is separate from the British Gas Energy Trust's Individual and Families Fund. The new schemne was launched in September and offers £1,700 to help families with energy debt.
That fund is for customers with between £50 and £1,700 of energy debt who have not received a grant from the British Gas Energy Trust within the past two years.
British Gas stated: "If you're struggling with domestic gas and electricity debts owed to British Gas, you may be eligible to apply for a grant from the Trust to help clear that debt." It's recommended to seek money or debt advice before applying for a grant.
This will help you manage your energy costs in the future and support your application. British Gas say: "The Trust is unable to help everyone who applies. Please note the Trust will require information on your financial circumstances to assess your application. The full criteria and how to apply can be found on the Trust's website. The grants available and eligibility criteria may change from time to time."
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