Help if you are struggling to pay your energy bills
Over the last few years there has been increases in energy prices resulting in many people struggling to pay for their gas and electricity bills. This is causing many people to worry, and they are unsure who to turn to for help.
Though it may seem daunting, it is important that you contact your energy supplier and discuss ways to help you pay what you owe. The payments should be made affordable based on your budget.
National Energy Action (NEA)
The National Energy Action is a charity that specialises in helping people with energy debt. They offer a range of services including:
- support with fuel debt
- switching suppliers
- home energy efficiency
- advice on benefits
Contact the National Energy Action on 0800 304 7159 for energy advice and 0800 138 8218 benefits advice.
Some energy suppliers have support funds available
British Gas energy trust
- British Gas Energy Support Fund provides grants to current British Gas customers who are facing fuel poverty and energy debt. Full eligibility criteria available here.
- The Trust provides a range of money and energy advice, highlighting in-person help sessions in your local area. Money advice tools can also be found on the Trusts page with the Better Off Calculator and Bounce Back Checklist.
Contact the British Gas energy trust
ScottishPower hardship fund
The Hardship Fund helps people to regain control of their energy payments as it focuses on reducing the customers arrears by putting credit into their accounts.
You could qualify for help from the ScottishPower Hardship Fund if you meet the terms and conditions and you’re receiving
- Income Support
- Job Seekers Allowance
- Pension Credit
- Employment and Support Allowance
Read about the ScottishPower hardship fund.
Octopus assist fund
The Octopus assist fund is only available for existing customers of Octopus Energy.
£30 million support fund offering free heated blankets, loaning out thermal cameras to check for draught areas in your home and direct bill support for most vulnerable customers.
Encourages customers to contact them about cheaper tariffs and payment options which are better suited to you. They also offer a range of money and energy saving tip sessions.
By signing up to a smart meter with Octopus it unlocks a reward scheme Octoplus with a range of benefits.
Read about the Octopus assist fund.
OVO energy trust fund
OVO Energy offers a Customer Support Package for its existing customers who are eligible providing:
- package of energy saving products – e.g. Electric blankets, LED bulbs, SMART sockets and free boiler servicing.
- emergency top up credit/ temporary payment reductions to eligible customers.
Separate to the scheme they offer free advice on energy and money saving tips to its customers.