British Gas is stepping up to support households facing financial hardship as energy prices rise and Ofgem‘s new price cap comes into force on 1 January 2025. Many UK families are struggling to manage their bills, with some pensioners no longer entitled to the Winter Fuel Allowance, while others remain unaware of the financial assistance available.
One key resource is the British Gas Energy Trust, which offers grants of up to £2,000 to help with energy debt.
Eligibility Criteria for the British Gas Energy Support Fund
The British Gas Energy Support Fund is aimed at reducing energy debt for eligible customers. Below is a summary of key criteria:
| Eligibility Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Residency | Must live in England, Scotland, or Wales |
| Debt Minimum (Prepayment Meter) | £50 |
| Debt Minimum (Credit Account) | £250 |
| Debt Maximum | £2,000 |
| Previous Grant | Not received within the last 12 months |
| Energy Account Type | Must relate to current or active energy accounts |
| Other Requirement | Proof of consultation with a money advice agency within the last 6 months |
Approved grants are credited directly to your energy account and cannot be paid as cash.
Accessing Support: Eligibility Criteria for Energy Assistance Fund
This fund offers broader access to support and includes customers of other energy providers. However, there are specific restrictions if your energy supplier operates its own support fund. Key details are outlined below:
| Eligibility Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Residency | Must live in England, Scotland, or Wales |
| Debt Minimum (Prepayment Meter) | £50 |
| Debt Minimum (Credit Account) | £250 |
| Debt Maximum | £1,700 |
| Previous Grant | Not received within the last 2 years |
| Energy Account Type | Active accounts tied to primary residence only |
| Other Requirement | Proof of consultation with a money advice agency within the last 6 months |
Required Documents for Grant Application
Applicants must prepare the following to submit their grant requests:
- Proof of all household income (dated within the last six months).
- Confirmation of money advice received from an authorized agency.
- Relevant energy documents, such as:
- A recent energy bill.
- Current meter readings (if applicable).
If the application is successful, the grant will be directly applied to your energy account, reducing your outstanding debt and easing financial pressure.
