More than 15,000 customers have been helped to pay off their energy bills and get free practical items
EDF energy customers struggling with debt could be eligible for additional assistance, including bill credits, supermarket vouchers and free household items through a scheme targeting vulnerable households.
The energy giant revealed that more than 15,000 customers across the UK have received help over the past year through initiatives run in partnership with charity Charis Grants. The support has concentrated on assisting those battling energy debt and broader cost of living pressures, offering financial aid alongside practical items intended to cut household bills.
Through the Customer Support Fund, more than 1,500 customers were able to establish payment plans to help manage outstanding energy debt. EDF confirmed that more than £2.5 million in debt support has been awarded through the scheme to help customers work towards becoming debt free.
Further assistance was also made available through the Winter Warmth Choices scheme during the colder months. This encompassed more than £1 million in energy bill credits, along with 5,787 supermarket vouchers to help households cover food and other essential costs throughout winter, reports the Daily Record.
Customers also received practical items designed to help cut energy consumption at home, including heated blankets, self heating mattress toppers, duvets, heated body warmers, heated airers, soup makers and slow cookers.
EDF stated that the goal is to help customers not only tackle immediate financial pressures, but also build longer term habits that could lower energy costs going forward.
Marie Cox, Vulnerable Customers Process Owner at EDF, said: “We are pleased to have partnered with Charis to support those who may not otherwise seek support, building on over 20 years of work together. By combining financial assistance with practical solutions, we’re not only helping people manage their energy bills today, but also supporting them to build more sustainable habits for the future.”
Jessica Taplin, chief executive at Charis Grants, added: “We’re proud to partner with EDF and see the real difference this support is making to people’s lives. By working together, we’re helping customers not only manage immediate challenges, but build confidence and take control of their energy costs for the future. It’s a partnership that’s delivering meaningful, lasting change where it matters most.”
EDF has announced it is urging customers to boost energy efficiency ahead of next winter, as households continue to feel the squeeze from soaring living costs and energy bills.
Those struggling to meet their energy payments can also check their eligibility for supplier hardship schemes, grants or additional assistance through the Priority Services Register, and are advised to contact their energy provider at the earliest opportunity if they are concerned about falling behind on payments.
