EDF Energy has made another £5million available to families through its hardship support fund in a boost for struggling households.
The energy giant had already put £1.4million into its Customer Support Fund pot earlier this year.
The additional funding means EDF now has £6.4million available in total to help families who are struggling to pay their energy bill.
As well as being used to help customers in debt or facing financial difficulties, the money will also be spent on energy efficient white goods so families can reduce their bill.
The money available in the Customer Support Fund comes in addition to the £4million EDF has set aside through its Warm Home Discount scheme.
The Warm Home Discount scheme allows eligible families to get a one-off payment worth £140 that is applied to their energy bill.
Through the Customer Support Fund and Warm Home Discount scheme, EDF has £10.4million of cash available for those most in need this year.
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.
Are you worried about affording your energy bills? Let us know: mirror.money.saving@mirror.co.uk
“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.
EDF isn't the only energy firm to run a hardship fund - we explain below...
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
The exact eligibility requirements vary between energy providers. In some cases, you’ll need to be claiming certain benefits to apply.
Generally speaking, you’ll need to have spoken to a debt adviser first before applying, and you’ll have to show proof of your income and explain why you’re behind on your bills.
You may also want to use the free grants search tool from debt charity Turn2Us to see what help is available where you live.
If you’re struggling to work out what grants or help you could be entitled to, speak to one of the specialist energy charities.
They will also be able to help you if you think you’ve been unfairly treated and want to put in a complaint.
Finally, there are energy schemes for those on a low income or claiming benefits - but sadly, these have closed for this winter.
They'll open again later this year, so keep an eye out for when they start taking applications again.
There is the Warm Home Discount scheme, which offers £140 one-off payments for those who get the Guarantee element of Pension Credit or are on a low income.
Or you might be eligible for the Winter Fuel Payment scheme, where those getting the state pension can get between £100 and £300.
Low income households can also get £25 a week to help with energy bills during the winter thanks to the Cold Weather Payment scheme too.
