For many households, energy bills remain a year-round concern. While winter is often when costs are highest, summer can actually be the best time to seek help with gas and electricity bills before financial pressures increase again.

If you’re worried about paying your energy bills, struggling with existing debt, or concerned about what next winter might bring, taking action now could help you avoid larger problems further down the line.

There are a range of options available across the UK, including grants, repayment plans, budgeting support and supplier assistance schemes.

Don’t Wait to Seek Support

When temperatures are warmer and heating use is lower, many households experience a temporary reduction in energy costs. This can provide an opportunity to review your finances, tackle existing energy debt and put support in place before winter arrives.

Waiting until colder weather sets in can make financial challenges harder to manage, particularly if energy debt has already started to build up. Seeking assistance with gas and electricity bills during the summer gives you more time to explore the support available and find a solution that works for your circumstances.

It can also be easier to engage with energy suppliers and advice services before winter demand increases.

Speak to Your Supplier

One of the first steps to consider is whether you may be eligible for energy grants or hardship funding.

Your energy supplier has a duty to support you if you’re struggling. They may be able to offer repayment plans, temporary payment breaks, reduced instalments and emergency credit. It’s important to speak to them first, to see what help might be available. Read our blog about hardship funds to find out more.

It’s important to speak up as soon as possible.

Get Free Budgeting and Debt Advice

Help can be found from charities, with many funded by British Gas Energy Trust to carry out such work.

These organisations can support with things like benefits checks and income maximisation, budgeting and energy efficiency exercises, applications to support schemes and energy queries.

Take a look at our list of Local Advice Centres to view support in your area.

Clear Your Debt

British Gas Energy Trust’s Individuals and Families Fund can help clear energy debts of up to £1,700 on prepayment meter or credit account holders, regardless of your supplier.

You must live in England, Scotland or Wales and have received money advice within the last six months.

For more help, read our blogs about energy grants to wipe out debt and how to get financial help with your electricity bills.