Extra support available from the British Gas Energy Trust this winter
The Energy Support Fund (ESF), run by the British Gas Energy Trust, provides grants of up to £2,000 to British Gas customers, to help them clear their energy debt. ESF complements the other fund the Trust runs, the Individuals and Families Fund (I&F), which provides up to £,1700 to customers of any energy supplier, if their supplier doesn’t have its own scheme or they can show their application to that scheme was unsuccessful.
The funds have supported people like Miss M*, a 37-year-old living with her two children in a Housing Association property. After being hit by a motorbike in 2023, she suffered serious leg injuries, and her youngest child was also hurt. The accident left her disabled and unable to work, leading to financial hardship.
While she now receives Universal Credit, Child Benefit, housing support, and disability benefits for her and her child, she initially struggled with delayed payments and fell behind on her household bills. With help from StepChange, she is working to manage her debts and feels able to keep up with future energy costs once her arrears are cleared.
Through support from the British Gas Energy Trust, Miss M received an energy grant of £788, helping her regain financial stability.
About the grant, Miss M said, “My appreciation for your help is enormous and so incredibly helpful, and I’m overwhelmed – thank you.”
To apply for the funds, you must live in England, Scotland or Wales, and have received money advice within the last six months. You must be seeking to clear outstanding debt on a current energy account in your name and place of residence. To read further eligibility criteria and apply, please visit British Gas Energy Trust- Grants Available
