As energy bills rise across the UK, British Gas has announced a financial support scheme to help struggling customers manage their payments. The initiative, called “You Pay: We Pay”, will provide eligible customers with up to £600 in matched payments, offering much-needed relief as energy costs increase by an average of £111 per year from April.
With millions of households feeling the pressure of higher utility bills, this move could make a significant difference for those struggling to stay on top of their energy costs.
How Does the £600 Payment Work?
According to Birmingham Live, British Gas is expanding its You Pay: We Pay support scheme, which helps customers by matching their energy bill payments over a six-month period.
Here’s how it works:
- Customers commit to paying a set amount toward their energy bills each month for six months.
- British Gas will match those payments, effectively doubling the amount in their account.
- If a customer pays £100 per month, they will contribute £600 over six months, and British Gas will add an additional £600 to their account.
Explaining the scheme, British Gas stated: “British Gas matches payments made by those who can afford to pay something over a period of six months, and there is no minimum level of debt balance to qualify.”
This means that even customers with outstanding balances can participate, with the matched payments helping to reduce their existing debt.
Why Is British Gas Offering This Support?
The decision to expand financial assistance comes as UK households brace for higher energy costs, following the announcement that Ofgem’s energy price cap will rise in April. The increase will see the typical household bill go up by £111 per year, adding further financial strain amid the ongoing cost of living crisis.
Chris O’Shea, group chief executive of Centrica, the parent company of British Gas, emphasized the company’s commitment to helping vulnerable customers:
“We know this winter has been particularly tough for many households, and it’s not always easy to keep on top of growing bills. We want to make sure as many customers as possible get the support they need, and that’s why we’re extending our ‘You Pay: We Pay’ scheme.”
He added: “It’s our responsibility to provide support for our customers, which is why we’ve put £140 million into helping those who need it most—through direct support and our ongoing commitment to the British Gas Energy Trust.”
Who Is Eligible for the Scheme?
British Gas has not set strict eligibility requirements, but the key condition is that customers must be able to commit to making regular payments for six months. There is no minimum level of debt required, meaning both those struggling with existing arrears and those looking for financial assistance can benefit.
Customers who are interested in applying should contact British Gas directly or check their online account for further details. As the cost of energy continues to rise, taking advantage of available financial support options could help ease the burden of rising bills.
