Last week, Ofgem announced that the energy price cap will rise by 4% from 1 October, taking the annual figure for a typical dual-fuel household paying by Direct Debit to £1,723.

The announcement may cause concern for households preparing for winter. The price cap limits the amount suppliers can charge for each unit of energy; it does not limit a household’s total bill, which depends on individual energy use.

For those already managing debt and other financial pressures, changing energy costs can make budgeting increasingly difficult. Fuel poverty is rarely caused by one issue alone; income, debt, health, housing quality and energy efficiency are often closely connected.

Tracey Talbot, Interim CEO of British Gas Energy Trust, said:
“Changes in energy costs can create uncertainty for people already managing tightly stretched household budgets. Our experience shows that the strongest outcomes are achieved when immediate assistance is combined with trusted, holistic advice addressing debt, income and people’s wider circumstances.
“This is why we have called for a coordinated, place-based approach that provides help today while addressing the underlying causes of fuel poverty for the longer term.”

In July, British Gas Energy Trust wrote to the Prime Minister outlining five priorities for government:

  • Adopt a national mission to end fuel poverty, backed by cross-government leadership.
  • Deliver an energy affordability guarantee through a social tariff and national energy debt strategy.
  • Invest in warm, energy-efficient homes.
  • Empower local leaders to deliver place-based solutions.
  • Invest in trusted community organisations providing advice, support and crisis prevention.

These recommendations recognise that fuel poverty cannot be addressed through energy policy alone. It requires coordinated action across energy, housing, health, welfare and local government, with trusted local advice at its heart.

In 2025-26, British Gas Energy Trust distributed £15.5 million in practical support for households via energy debt grants, white goods, fuel vouchers and holistic in-person money and energy advice via our funded organisations.
Anyone concerned about their energy costs should seek help early by contacting their supplier or speaking to a free, independent advisor. Help can be found at Fuel and Money Advice | Free Local Support & Guidance | British Gas Energy Trust Britain