EDF has been helping eligible customers struggling with energy debt and wider cost of living pressures
Further assistance was also made available through the Winter Warmth Choices scheme(Image: fizkes via Getty Images)
Households with outstanding EDF energy balances may qualify for additional assistance, including bill reductions, shopping vouchers and complimentary household goods through an initiative targeting vulnerable families.
The energy supplier revealed that over 15,000 customers nationwide have received help during the past year via programmes delivered alongside charity partner Charis Grants. The assistance has concentrated on supporting those grappling with energy arrears and broader financial challenges by providing monetary aid together with practical products intended to lower household expenditure.
Via the Customer Support Fund, over 1,500 customers were enabled to arrange payment schedules to help manage outstanding energy balances. EDF stated that more than £2.5 million in debt assistance has been distributed through the programme to help households progress towards clearing their arrears.
Further assistance was also made available through the Winter Warmth Choices scheme throughout the colder period. This encompassed over £1 million in energy bill reductions alongside 5,787 supermarket vouchers to help families meet food and other essential expenses during winter, reports the Daily Record.
Households also received practical products 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 the objective is to help customers not only address immediate financial strain, but also establish longer-term practices that could lower energy expenditure 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, said: “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 urged customers to enhance energy efficiency ahead of next winter, as households continue facing pressures from escalating living costs and energy bills.
Those struggling with energy payments can also verify their eligibility for supplier hardship schemes, grants or additional support through the Priority Services Register, and should reach out to their energy provider at the earliest opportunity if concerned about falling into arrears.
