Support available this Fuel Poverty Awareness Day

Today marks National Energy Action’s Fuel Poverty Awareness Day.

The day aims to shine a light on the issue of fuel poverty in the United Kingdom, where an estimated six million households will be in fuel poverty this winter.

Energy prices are still 50% higher than pre-crisis levels, and people are struggling to stay warm, safe and healthy in their homes. Households in energy debt owe their supplier an average of £2,875; higher than a typical annual bill.

These concerns were also addressed at the British Gas Energy Trusts (the Trust) report launch yesterday, 26th November. The Trust held the launch at the House of Commons, an event attended by more than 85 representatives from frontline organisations, not-for-profits and MPs.

The report, titled ‘Toward an end to fuel poverty in Britain’ outlines 10 key recommendations put forward by frontline agencies to help vulnerable households struggling with the detrimental impact of fuel poverty.

Support available from the British Gas Energy Trust

The British Gas Energy Trust is a Charitable Trust established in 2004 and independent from, but solely funded by, British Gas. Its mission is to alleviate the detrimental impact of poverty, with a focus on fuel poverty.

Support available from the Trust includes:

The Individuals and Families Fund

This fund provides energy debt write off grants of up to £1,700 to eligible households. It is available to British Gas and non-British Gas customers with pre-payment meters or credit accounts.

The Energy Support Fund

This fund supports eligible households with up to £2,000 in energy debt write off grants. It’s available to British Gas customers with pre-payment meter and credit accounts.

Small grants programme

Through its trusted partners, the Trust provides households with emergency energy vouchers, financial assistance payments and white goods.

Supporting Communities At Risk Programme (SCARP)

The Trust funds 39 charities and social enterprises across Britain to provide free and impartial money and energy advice. These organisations can provide support with things like budget planning, benefit and income maximisation checks, advocacy with energy suppliers, home energy efficiency surveys and tailored energy efficiency advice. Some can also support with generalist advice on subjects including housing, employment and discrimination.