As the rate of inflation hits seven per cent, thousands of people will be hit hard by cost of living.
This is fuel by the energy crisis that has seen the price cap rise by 54 per cent, adding an extra £693 to the average yearly bill.
In a bid to help households who need it, EDF Energy has made another £5 million available through their hardship support fund.
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The energy firm already had put £1.4 million into its Customer Support Fund pot earlier this year, as the Mirror reports.
The additional funding means EDF now has £6.4million available in total to help families who are struggling to pay their energy bill.
Money can be spent on energy efficient white goods as well as helping customers in debt or facing financial difficulties.
The cash available in the Customer Support Fund is in addition to the £4 million EDF has set aside through its Warm Home Discount scheme, totalling to a whopping £10.4 million that can help those who need it the most.
The Warm Home Discount scheme allows eligible families to get a one-off payment worth £140 that is applied to their energy bill.
Philippe Commaret, Managing Director, Customers at EDF said: “We know more people are going to struggle to pay their energy bills, so we’re doing everything we can to try and help.
“Worryingly, if current market trends continue, energy prices are set to increase again. And we know, this additional support we’re announcing today won’t be enough to help all those in need this year.
“Households will need help before prices rise again in October through greater uptake of energy efficiency and financial help to those grappling with rising costs.”
You can apply for the Customer Support Fund by filling out a form online.
The scheme is run by Charis and the funding will be given on a case-by-case basis. EDF said you must continue to pay your bills while your application is being processed.
How to get help with your energy bills
British Gas has an Energy Trust fund that can be accessed by anyone, not just British Gas customers, providing you meet the eligibility criteria.
Help is also available from the following energy providers, if you’re an existing customer:
- E.on Energy Fund
- E.on Next Energy Fund
- Ovo Energy Fund
- Octo Assist Fund
- Scottish Power Hardship Fund
- Shell Energy
If you need advice, Home Energy Scotland offers impartial guidance on energy saving.
