Grants available to customers of any energy supplier

When you’re struggling with energy bills, it’s easy to feel like you have nowhere to turn. That’s why the British Gas Energy Trust operates its Individuals and Families Fund (I&F), a support scheme available to customers of any supplier.

I&F exists to help people with credit or prepayment meter accounts, who have fallen into energy debt and need a helping hand to get back on track. It offers grants of up to £1,700 to clear outstanding energy bills, and you don’t have to be a British Gas customer to apply.

If your supplier doesn’t have its own energy support scheme, or if you’ve applied for help and been turned down, you can still apply to I&F. I&F works alongside the Trust’s Energy Support Fund, which provides grants of up to £2,000 to British Gas customers only.

To apply to either fund, you must live in England, Scotland, or Wales, have an active energy account in your name, and have received money advice within the last six months. The funds have helped people like Miss L*, a 28-year-old living alone in a Local Authority property. She has faced long-term financial hardship, compounded by personal tragedies including the suicide of a close friend and experiences of domestic violence.

Following a period of isolation, mental health struggles, and alcohol dependency, Miss L lost her job and fell behind on her household bills, including energy charges. With support from her local advice agency, she is now rebuilding her life, working towards employment, and is optimistic about managing future bills.

Through the British Gas Energy Trust’s Individuals and Families Fund, Miss L received an energy grant of £1,280, clearing her energy debt and giving her the space to focus on her future.

To check eligibility criteria and apply, please visit British Gas Energy Trust- Grants Available