Full List of Energy Suppliers Handing Out Up to £1,500 in Help and How to Get It

Households across the UK may be feeling the strain of high energy bills, especially with the cost of living on the rise. However, there is help available for those who are struggling to pay their bills. Energy regulator Ofgem recently announced a price cap that will result in lower bills for the average household from October. While this is a step in the right direction, bills are still significantly higher compared to 18 months ago, leaving many families in financial distress. To assist households in need, several energy suppliers have introduced schemes and grants. Here is a comprehensive list of the suppliers offering financial assistance and how you can access it.

British Gas

British Gas has reopened its Individuals and Family Fund, which provides grants to help with energy bills. The best part is that you don’t need to be a British Gas customer to apply. Successful applicants can receive a grant of up to £1,500, although the exact amount may vary depending on individual circumstances.

To be eligible for assistance, you must meet the following criteria:

• Live in England, Scotland, or Wales
• Have not received a grant from the British Gas Energy Trust in the past two years
• Seeking a grant to pay off outstanding debt on a gas, electricity, or dual fuel energy account in your name or household
• The energy account should be for your main residence
• Have electric and/or gas debt
• Savings below £1,000
• Have received help from a money advice agency

When applying, you will need to provide evidence of debt advice within the last three months. You can find a free debt advisor near you on moneyhelper.org.uk. Additionally, proof of current household income is required. British Gas customers will also need to provide a recent meter reading, unless they have a smart meter. You can apply for the fund on the British Gas Energy Trust website. If you’re a British Gas customer struggling to pay your bill, you can contact their customer service team on 0333 202 9804 to discuss payment plan options.

Scottish Power

Scottish Power offers its Hardship Fund to customers on a lower income who are struggling to pay their bills. This scheme is exclusive to Scottish Power customers. The fund can help you regain control of your finances by clearing or reducing arrears through credits to your Scottish Power energy account. Eligibility is based on receiving benefits such as Income Support, Job Seekers Allowance, Pension Credit, or Employment and Support Allowance. The eligibility criteria can change, so make sure to check with Scottish Power before applying.

If you qualify, you can apply for the fund on the Scottish Power website or call 0121 285 2595 for assistance.

E.on

The E.on Next Energy Fund is designed for individuals experiencing financial hardship. It offers two options: one grants assistance with gas and electricity bills, while the other replaces broken household appliances like cookers, fridge freezers, and washing machines. To be eligible, you must demonstrate regular payments towards your energy bill over a three-month period.

To apply, visit the E.on website and provide necessary information such as proof of income and a recent meter reading.

Ovo

Ovo, an energy supplier, has launched a customer support package worth £50 million to aid customers affected by rising energy prices. Direct debit customers can access an online payment support tool on the Ovo website, which helps assess the right plan for them. Ovo guarantees that the most vulnerable customers can have their direct debit reduced by up to 15%. For customers who pay on receipt of bills, a bespoke payment plan lasting for 36 months can be created.

Ovo has also increased the emergency credit amount from £5 to £15 for prepayment customers. If customers are switched to a prepayment plan, regular check-ins will be conducted to ensure they can get through the winter. Additionally, prepayment customers will be offered a payment holiday from debt repayment.

To apply for support, visit the Ovo website or use the app. You will need to fill out a form regarding your income and medical situation.

Related Facts

• Ofgem’s latest price cap will result in a decrease in average gas and electricity bills by £151 over winter.
• Various energy suppliers have introduced schemes and grants to assist households struggling with high energy bills.
• British Gas Energy Trust offers grants of up to £1,500 to help with energy bill payments.
• Scottish Power’s Hardship Fund aims to clear or reduce arrears for customers on a lower income.
• The E.on Next Energy Fund provides financial assistance for gas, electricity bills, and replacement of broken household appliances.
• Ovo’s customer support package includes payment support tools, reduced direct debits, and increased emergency credit for prepayment customers.

Key Takeaway

If you’re struggling to pay your energy bills, there is help available. Whether you’re a customer of British Gas, Scottish Power, E.on, or Ovo, various assistance schemes and grants can provide much-needed relief. Make sure to check the eligibility criteria and apply accordingly. Additionally, seek advice from money advice agencies and debt advisors to better manage your finances.

Conclusion

High energy bills can place a significant strain on households, but there are options for assistance. By taking advantage of the schemes and grants offered by energy suppliers such as British Gas, Scottish Power, E.on, and Ovo, you can alleviate some of the financial burden. Remember to explore eligibility criteria and application processes thoroughly to find the best fit for your circumstances. Don’t hesitate to seek guidance from money advice agencies to achieve better financial management.