British Gas has taken a significant step to support customers facing financial hardship by launching the ‘You Pay: We Pay’ scheme. This initiative is designed to help customers struggling with energy bills by matching their affordable payments with an equal credit top-up for six months. The scheme will run from June to November, and British Gas will contact eligible customers over the next few weeks.
To qualify for the extra credit, customers must continue paying their bills, but only as much as they can afford. The more they pay, the more free credit they will receive. For example, a customer paying £100 a month will pay £600 over six months, and British Gas will then provide an additional £600 credit to help clear their outstanding balance.
British Gas has emphasized that customers do not need to contact the company to apply for the scheme. Instead, the company will reach out to those who are likely to qualify. Customers will need to undergo an assessment with a specialist adviser to determine their eligibility.
Chris O’Shea, boss at British Gas’ parent company Centrica, said, ‘Most people want to pay their bills, but it can be very difficult to pay for what you need and clear debts. We want to try to help put our customers on a better footing to recover from this period of high inflation.’
Richard Lane from the debt advice charity StepChange praised the initiative, saying, ‘It’s great to see innovative approaches from companies like British Gas that have the potential to make a real impact for struggling households.’
The scheme is part of British Gas’s wider £140 million support package for households experiencing fuel poverty. Customers can also apply to the British Gas Energy Trust for a free grant of up to £2,000, even if they have a different energy supplier.
Other energy suppliers also offer various forms of assistance to customers facing financial difficulties. Scottish Power has a hardship fund that provides grants to pay off arrears, while E.on offers grants to help cover gas and electricity bills. Ovo, Shell, and Octopus also have schemes to assist customers with energy arrears and monthly bills.
If you are struggling to pay your energy bills, it is important to contact your supplier as soon as possible to discuss your options. There are also a number of charities and independent organizations that offer free and confidential debt advice. The government’s moneyhelper.org.uk service has a tool to help you find a free debt adviser near you.
Remember, you are not alone. Many families are facing similar challenges, and there is help available. By seeking assistance, you can take control of your finances and overcome this difficult period.
