Struggling to keep up with your energy bills? You’re not alone—and more importantly, help is available.
Energy prices have risen steeply in recent years. Many households across the UK have found it difficult to stay on top of gas and electricity payments. Whether you’ve missed a payment or feel like you’re one bill away from falling behind, it’s essential to know that support exists. Taking action early can prevent the situation from worsening.
1. Speak to Your Energy Supplier First
If you’re behind—or at risk of falling behind—on your energy bills, the first and most important step is to contact your energy supplier. They are legally required to work with you to agree on a payment plan that’s affordable based on your circumstances.
A payment plan might include:
- Spreading the cost of what you owe over a longer period
- Payment breaks or reductions if you’re in serious financial difficulty
- Prepayment meter alternatives or top-up support
- help with your energy bills gov
Suppliers must also take into account your ability to pay, especially if you are vulnerable, such as being elderly, disabled, or living with young children.
2. Check If You’re Eligible for Emergency Support
There are several government and charitable schemes designed to help people who are struggling with energy costs:
🔹 Energy Bills Support Scheme
While this scheme ended in 2023, other seasonal discounts or one-off payments may still be available depending on the time of year. Always check GOV.UK for the latest updates.
🔹 Warm Home Discount Scheme
This offers a £150 discount on electricity bills for eligible low-income households, usually applied automatically if you receive certain benefits.
🔹 Winter Fuel Payment
If you were born on or before 25 September 1957, you could receive between £250 and £600 to help with heating bills.
🔹 Cold Weather Payment
If the temperature in your area drops to zero or below for 7 consecutive days between November and March, you may receive a payment of £25—if you qualify through certain benefits.
🔹 Household Support Fund
Distributed by local councils, this fund can help with energy bills, food, and essential household items. Contact your local council or visit their website to apply.
3. Get Advice from a Debt Charity
If energy debt is just one part of a wider financial struggle, it might help to speak to a qualified, free debt advisor. They can help you:
- Create a budget and prioritise bills
- Communicate with suppliers and creditors
- Access local grants or hardship funds
Trusted organisations include:
- StepChange: stepchange.org
- Citizens Advice: Call 0808 223 1133 or visit citizensadvice.org.uk
- National Debtline: 0808 808 4000 or nationaldebtline.org
4. Check for Grants and Trust Funds
Some energy suppliers run hardship funds or grants for customers in financial need, such as:
- British Gas Energy Trust (open to anyone, not just British Gas customers)
- E.ON Energy Fund
- EDF Energy Customer Support Fund
- Octopus Assist Fund
These can help pay off energy debts or replace broken appliances like cookers and fridges.
5. Small Steps Can Make a Big Difference
In addition to seeking financial help, you might be able to reduce your energy usage and lower your bills:
- Use energy-saving bulbs and appliances
- Turn off devices at the socket
- Fit draught excluders or radiator reflectors
- Apply for free energy efficiency improvements through schemes like Energy Company Obligation (ECO4)
You Are Not Alone
Falling behind with bills can feel overwhelming, but it’s important to remember that help is available—and you’re not the only one going through it. Reaching out early can make the road ahead far easier, and there is absolutely no shame in asking for support.
Need support today?
Start by calling your energy provider or reaching out to Citizens Advice for a confidential conversation. A single phone call could lead to real relief—and a clear path forward.