Over 100,000 People Supported by British Gas Energy Trust

At a time when energy debt is predicted to hit £7bn by the end of 2026, British Gas Energy Trust has published its latest impact report highlighting the scale of support delivered to over 100,000 people facing financial hardship across Britain.

The report brings together the Trust’s work during 2025/26, showing how grants, money and energy advice, practical assistance and community-based support have helped people manage energy debt, maximise their income and build greater financial resilience.

In 2025/26:
101,100 people supported across all Trust initiatives.
5,421 people supported with energy debt write off grants.
More than £15.6 million distributed in grants and funding.
£42.3 million in additional income secured for clients.
£43 million in client debt was managed or written off.

The report also looks ahead to the Trust’s next phase. In 2026, British Gas committed £40 million over next five years, providing £8 million a year to support Trust’s work. The Trust is using this long-term commitment to strengthen its programmes, deepen collaboration with frontline organisations and develop new approaches to data and insight.

The publication comes as Maff Potts joins British Gas Energy Trust as its new Chief Executive. Maff joined the Trust in September 2026, bringing experience in community-led social impact, public services and partnership working, having previously served as Director of Camerados.

Maff Potts, Chief Executive of British Gas Energy Trust, said:
“I’m delighted to have joined the Trust at such an important point in its journey. This report provides a clear picture of both the scale of the challenges people are facing and the difference that practical, timely support can make.
“What stands out to me is the strength of the organisations working alongside the Trust. Their frontline knowledge, relationships and commitment are essential to reaching people who might otherwise struggle to access support.
“As I begin my role, I want to build on that work. We have an opportunity to be ambitious about what comes next; strengthening our partnerships, using evidence and insight to improve what we do, and making sure our support continues to respond to the realities people are facing.”

Chris O’Shea, Group Chief Executive of Centrica, said:
“At a time when energy debt continues to rise rapidly, the work of the British Gas Energy Trust has never been more important. The fact that over 100,000 people turned to the Trust for support last year alone shows the scale of the challenge many households continue to face. British Gas has proudly supported the Trust for more than 20 years and we’re committing a further £40 million over the next five years to help thousands more people access the support they need. Last year alone, the Trust distributed more than £15.6 million in grants and funding, helping people manage debt, access vital advice and improve their financial resilience.”