Most funds want you to get free money advice first, show your household income, and agree a payment plan for your ongoing use. Your supplier must also offer a payment plan or payment break and can put you on its Priority Services Register.
Quick facts
- Octopus
- Octo Assist
- EDF
- Customer Support Fund
- E.ON Next
- E.ON Next Energy Fund
- ScottishPower
- Hardship Fund
- Any supplier
- British Gas Energy Trust (after your own fund)
Octopus: Octo Assist
Grants towards bills, standing charge holidays over winter, payment plans and free electric blankets. "Customers can apply for assistance all-year-round by contacting Octopus or filling out a simple Paylink form." See Octo Assist.
EDF: Customer Support Fund
"The Customer Support Fund offers debt support and energy efficient appliances such as cookers, fridges and washing machines, to replace old or broken models." The debt is cleared after a run of regular payments. See EDF Customer Support Fund.
E.ON Next: Energy Fund
"The E.ON Next Energy Fund supports eligible customers by clearing debt from their energy account and provides energy-efficient white goods such as washing machines, fridges, freezers and cookers when urgently needed." Ask E.ON Next how to apply.
ScottishPower: Hardship Fund
"If you’re eligible, the ScottishPower Hardship Fund can help by clearing or reducing outstanding balances on your ScottishPower energy account." You apply through a debt adviser and Sigma Connected Support. See ScottishPower Hardship Fund.
Other suppliers, and if your supplier says no
OVO, British Gas, Utility Warehouse and smaller suppliers offer payment plans and extra support; ring yours and ask. If your supplier's fund turns you down, or it has none, apply to the British Gas Energy Trust, which helps customers of any supplier.
Common questions
Which energy suppliers have a hardship fund?
Octopus (Octo Assist), EDF (Customer Support Fund), E.ON Next (Energy Fund) and ScottishPower (Hardship Fund) all run one. Others offer payment plans and extra support.
Can I apply to the British Gas Energy Trust if I'm not with British Gas?
Yes, but customers of suppliers with their own fund must apply there first and be turned down.
What do I need before applying to a supplier fund?
Usually free money advice, proof of household income, and a payment plan for your ongoing energy use.