Struggling with Debt
Mum-of-three Farzana Ali found herself over a thousand pounds in debt to British Gas after being signed off work with stress. The 42-year-old midday assistant from Dagenham, Essex, was unable to afford her energy bills during the pandemic and was forced to stay home for months due to the high risk of complications for her and her son.
Financial Stress Takes a Toll
After months of homeschooling her children and returning to work part-time, Farzana's financial stress took a toll on her mental health. She was signed off work with depression and felt overwhelmed by her mounting debt and inability to pay her bills.
Lifeline from British Gas Energy Trust
Fortunately, British Gas offered Farzana a lifeline by connecting her with the British Gas Energy Trust, an independent charity solely funded by British Gas. The trust provides support to individuals struggling with energy bills, offering grants of up to £1,500 to clear arrears and smaller grants for short-term emergencies.
Relief and Gratitude
Farzana was relieved and grateful when she learned that the trust would pay off her entire debt. Within days, her debt was cleared, and she felt a weight lifted off her shoulders. She expressed her gratitude for the support and emphasized the importance of reaching out for help.
Support for Mental Wellbeing
Research from the British Gas Energy Trust reveals that one in four UK adults is struggling with their mental wellbeing due to the cost of living crisis. The trust urges anyone worried about paying their energy bills to seek help at one of its British Gas Post Office Pop-Ups, where free, confidential money and energy advice is available.
How to Apply for Assistance
To qualify for support from the British Gas Energy Trust, applicants must meet certain criteria, including living in England, Scotland, or Wales, having an outstanding debt on a gas or electricity account, and not having savings above £1,000. Applicants also need to provide evidence of receiving debt advice and proof of current household income.
Other Sources of Support
Aside from the British Gas Energy Trust, other energy suppliers and local councils offer hardship funds, grants, and support for struggling customers. Scottish Power, E.on, Ovo, Shell, and Octopus are among the providers offering various forms of assistance. Additionally, households can explore the Household Support Fund and emergency credit options provided by energy suppliers.
Don't Be Ashamed to Ask for Help
Farzana encourages anyone struggling with energy bills to ask for help and emphasizes that there is no shame in seeking assistance. With the support she received, Farzana's life has improved, and she is determined to stay on top of her payments and avoid falling into arrears again.
For more information and to apply for support, visit the British Gas Energy Trust website or contact the British Gas customer service team.
