Keeping warm when the temperature drops can be expensive, especially if you’re already worried about your energy bills. But you could be missing out on help that makes a real difference, from free electric blankets and heated throws to a £150 discount on your energy bill and even opportunities to earn free electricity.Some schemes are specifically for people on low incomes, while others are open to customers who can change when they use their electricity. We’ve rounded up the latest help available this winter, where to apply and what to check before you miss out.
Quick check: Could you get help this winter?You could qualify for a £150 Warm Home Discount, free heating equipment, help with energy debts or a winter heating payment. Some support is automatic, but other schemes require an application or an assessment of your circumstances.
Don’t wait until you’ve fallen behind with your bills to ask for help.
What’s in this guide?
Free Electric Blankets
An electric blanket or heated throw can be a relatively cheap way to keep yourself warm without heating every room in the house. And this winter, some energy suppliers are providing them free to customers who need extra support.
Octopus Energy: Free electric blankets through Octo Assist
Octopus Energy’s Octo Assist fund is now described by the supplier as a £40 million support package, designed to help customers struggling with energy costs.
As well as help with bills and standing charges, the fund can provide free electric blankets to vulnerable customers, particularly those with medical needs or who are at greater risk from the cold.
Support is not guaranteed and applications are assessed according to individual circumstances. You’ll usually need to provide information about your household finances so Octopus can decide which assistance is appropriate.
FREE ELECTRIC BLANKET: OCTOPUS ENERGYOctopus customers who are struggling to stay warm can request help through the Octo Assist fund. This could include a free electric blanket, a standing charge holiday or other blankets electric energy Free
