08 March 2024 , 08:59
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An energy scheme funded by British Gas that gives out free grants worth up to £2,000 will no longer be taking applications from later today unless you're a prepayment customer.
The Individuals and Families Fund is a scheme run by the British Gas Energy Trust, which is an independent charity that is funded by British Gas. But you don't need to be a British Gas customer to access its help - meaning it is open to anyone who cannot get help from their own energy supplier.
However, the scheme is closing today at 4pm for credit account holders. It will remain open to pre-payment meter customers only. The grants are awarded to people to clear outstanding energy debt You must have already received help from a money advice agency in the past three months.
You won't be eligible if you have already received a grant from the British Gas Energy Trust within the last two years. If you're a British Gas customer, your balance will be verified with British Gas as part of the application process.
It comes as British Gas said it had donated a further £20million to the British Gas Energy Trust. In an update in January, it was announced that £20.5million in grants had been given in the last 12 months to help those struggling with energy costs.
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Chris O’Shea, Chief Executive of Centrica, said: “We know that many people across the UK are still struggling with the cost of living and need support with their energy bills, and we want to make sure we’re doing everything we can to help. That’s why we have a £100million support package in place and have committed £20million to enable the Trust to continue to support people in financial hardship - through grants, energy and advice services.
“The work of the British Gas Energy Trust for the last twenty years is something I’m especially proud of and it has helped us reach those who need it most during the energy crisis. We’ve also been able to introduce new initiatives like our Post Office Pop Ups to provide face to face support to all consumers. Even when living costs ease, there will always be people that need this help, and we will continue to work with the Trust.”
Jessica Taplin, CEO of the British Gas Energy Trust, said: “Since the Trust was founded 20 years ago, it has made significant difference to the lives of the most financially vulnerable people in communities across Britain. The ongoing cost of living crisis will continue to hit the poorest people the hardest and, as an organisation, our ambition is to deliver the help and support needed to break the cycle of energy deprivation and help people avoid the burden of energy debt.
“We are forever grateful for the support we receive from British Gas as their funding makes all of our work possible. The £20million donation will allow us to continue to help people in financial hardship meet their energy needs and improve their money management skills.”