With energy bills set to increase today by 2%, the British Gas Energy Trust has re-opened its largest energy debt fund and is urging people in energy debt to seek support.

The British Gas Energy Support Fund (ESF) offers grants to British Gas customers with up to £2,000 of debt on credit or prepayment meter accounts.

“Our focus is ensuring people can access support, so that no one has to choose between heating their home or meeting other essential needs this winter.” Said Jessica Taplin, Chief Executive Officer of the Trust. “With energy prices rising and household budgets coming under pressure, we hope the reopening of the fund can help families and individuals who are struggling, helping them move towards a more secure financial future.”

ESF complements the Trusts already open Individuals and Families Fund, which provides up to £1,700 to eligible customers of any energy supplier, if their supplier doesn’t have its own scheme or they can show their application to that scheme was unsuccessful.

ESF has helped people like Ms S*, a 49-year-old who lives alone in her mortgaged property. She is unable to work due to multiple health conditions, including a recently diagnosed heart condition. Dependent on Universal Credit and standard rate PIP, she requires extra gas heating to protect her health, which combined with rising energy costs has led to fuel poverty, energy arrears, and difficulty keeping up with mortgage payments. After receiving money advice and making energy-saving changes, her finances now show she can manage future energy costs, and she was awarded a £639 grant to clear her energy arrears.

About the grant, Ms S said “I didn’t know what to do about this debt, but the application was easy, and I can now focus on paying my winter bills without this worry.”

Head to the British Gas Energy Trust website to apply.

*Name changed to protect client’s identity.