British Gas, one of the leading energy providers in the UK, has announced an extension to its ‘You Pay: We Pay’ initiative, making it possible for more customers to benefit from the £10 million available in the scheme. This unique initiative in the energy sector matches 100% of energy payments made by customers in need, helping to reduce or prevent energy debt.
Launched in June 2024, the ‘You Pay: We Pay’ scheme has already provided targeted support to thousands of households facing or at risk of fuel poverty. The extension of the program, which will run until later this year, will now also include the option for customers to take payment breaks, providing relief for those who are struggling to make regular payments. Additionally, customers will still have access to hardship grants while receiving support through the ‘You Pay: We Pay’ initiative.
This extension highlights British Gas’s commitment to supporting customers who are facing financial challenges. The ‘You Pay: We Pay’ scheme is part of a larger £140 million support package, which includes grants of up to £2,000 through the British Gas Energy Trust (BGET) and funding for advice centers and charities.
In an effort to reach out to as many eligible customers as possible, British Gas will be writing to over 600,000 customers this month. The company has also released an open letter encouraging those who are struggling to see what help is available to them.
Chris O’Shea, Group Chief Executive of Centrica, the parent company of British Gas, stated, “We understand that this winter has been particularly difficult for many households, and it can be challenging to keep up with growing bills. We want to ensure that as many customers as possible receive the support they need, which is why we are extending our ‘You Pay We Pay’ scheme.”
O’Shea continued, “It is our responsibility to provide support for our customers, and that is why we have allocated £140 million towards helping those who need it most, through direct support and our ongoing commitment to the incredible team at the British Gas Energy Trust.”
Under the ‘You Pay: We Pay’ scheme, British Gas matches payments made by customers who can afford to pay something over a period of six months. There is no minimum level of debt balance required to qualify for the program. For example, if a customer pays £100 a month, they will pay £600 over six months, and British Gas will provide an additional £600 credit on their account. This additional credit can also help towards clearing any outstanding balance accumulated over the winter months.
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.