Britons do not have to be British Gas customers to apply for this fund.
They can be a customer from another supplier with arrears of up to £1,500.
British Gas wants to ensure that grants go to people who cannot access energy debt help from their own provider.
Eon, Eon Next, EDF, Scottish Power and Octopus all have their own funds to support their customers only, so if a customer of one of these companies, they can apply to them directly.
As part of one’s application, British Gas will want to understand how the individual will be able to manage their energy costs in future.
This is why it’s so important to ensure people have sought professional money advice before applying, as there may be other routes which are more suitable for their situation.
To be considered for a grant people must meet the following criteria.
If you cannot tick all boxes their application will not progress to assessment –
- You live in England, Scotland or Wales.
- You have not received a grant from the British Gas Energy Trust within the last two years.
- You must be seeking a grant to clear an outstanding debt on a current or open gas, electricity or dual fuel energy account in your name or be a member of that household, the energy account must relate to your main residence. If your application is successful, your energy account will be credited with the grant. Please note the British Gas Energy Trust does not award cash payments.
- You have electric and/or gas debt.
- You must be in or facing Fuel Poverty; and
- You have received help from a money advice agency.
People can apply for the grant on the Government website.
Britons need proof of money advice received in the last three months (e.g. a letter confirming the advice provided, a standard financial statement and/or Personal Action Plan).
If they haven’t received money advice in the last three months, British Gas recommends people find their nearest advice agency before applying. Claimants will need to have proof of all household income when applying.
British Gas customers will need a meter read for their gas and/or electric account (unless they have a smart meter).
Other energy supplier customers will need a bill based on actual readings dated within four weeks, showing their name, account number or supply address or an email from their energy supplier dated within four weeks that confirm their name, account number, supply address, outstanding balance and confirmation the balance is based on actual readings.
British Gas Energy Trust is working with the Post Office and British Gas to run in-person community pop-ups in Post Offices across England, Scotland and Wales.
Trained advisors from organisations funded by the Trust will be on hand to talk about the support available to help manage money and energy bills.
Millions of households are missing out on benefits and services they are entitled to.
The Bounce Back Checklist on their website details the main benefits and schemes to help people get support and maximise their income – whether they’re working or not.
