British Gas has reopened its hardship fund from today, offering grants of up to £1,500 to any household struggling with soaring energy bills.
The British Gas Energy Trust for Individual and Families closed in the spring but is now open to new applications from people struggling with their energy debts. While anyone can apply for the grant - you don't have to be a British Gas customer - one of the main criteria to get help is you have to prove you have sought money advice in the three months prior to applying.
You also need to be in debt to your energy supplier to be eligible and have no more than £1,000 in savings. The final criteria you need to apply is that you must not have received a grant from the Energy Trust within the past two years. The full criteria and details on how to apply can be found on the British Gas Website, and those those applying will need proof of money advice received, proof of their household income and their most recent gas and electricity bill. The easiest way to apply is through a charity such as National Energy Action or Citizens Advice.
