We wanted to provide an update on an initiative designed to assist customers during the ongoing cost-of-living challenges.
Our registration with the HACT Fuel Fund aims to support customers in managing rising energy costs by providing vouchers for fuel expenses.
HACT (Housing Associations' Charitable Trust), is an organisation dedicated to driving positive change within the UK’s social housing sector. They work with housing associations and other stakeholders to develop and deliver solutions that enhance the lives of customers.
In this instance, HACT is managing the distribution of Fuel Funding Vouchers, ensuring that our eligible customers receive the financial support they need.
Eligibility and Referral Process
Any customer with a prepayment meter who is struggling with fuel costs and is at risk of self-disconnection is eligible to receive these vouchers. Customers cannot apply directly and instead our neighbourhood coaches, who work closely with our customers, identify those who may benefit from the vouchers. When a potential recipient is identified, our neighbourhood coach will make a referral to our Co-ordinator team, who will then send an application to HACT. Once approved, our Co-ordinator team will send the vouchers directly to our customers.
Each customer is entitled to receive up to six £49 vouchers to help cover their fuel costs over the twelve-month duration of the fuel fund, which is coming to an end in October 2024. These vouchers can be redeemed exclusively through PayPoint.
British Gas does not accept PayPoint vouchers. However, customers facing financial difficulties and registered with British Gas may be eligible for a unique fund. Up to four vouchers, each worth £50, can be claimed and exchanged for cash at a PayPoint store. This fund ended on 14 August 2024, providing £12,000 to our customers.
A total of 344 households received support through the HACT and British Gas funds, with £83,496 distributed to our customers.
Purpose of the Vouchers
By registering for this fund, we aim to provide financial relief, helping our customers manage their household budgets more effectively during these difficult times.
We believe that these vouchers will make a significant difference for many of our customers, and we will continue to seek out opportunities to support our customers and communities.