Energy Charities in the UK: How to Get Help With Energy Bills, Grants & Support
With energy prices remaining a major concern for millions across the UK, more households than ever are searching for help with energy bills, energy grants, and charities that support people in fuel poverty. Whether you’re struggling to keep up with your gas and electricity payments, need urgent financial assistance, or want expert advice on reducing your energy costs, a number of UK energy charities can offer practical, free support.
This guide covers the most trusted energy charities in the UK, the types of energy support they provide, and how you can access grants, discounts, and advice to lower your energy bills.
Why Energy Charities Matter
Despite some stabilisation in wholesale prices, energy costs remain significantly higher than pre-2020 levels. Many households are still facing:
- Rising direct debit costs
- Debt with energy suppliers
- Difficulty accessing government support
- Cold homes and health risks linked to fuel poverty
Energy charities fill critical gaps by providing grants, emergency funds, advocacy, energy-saving advice, and home improvements that can drastically reduce energy bills.
Top Energy Charities in the UK Offering Free Support
Citizens Advice
One of the most widely used organisations for energy help and guidance, Citizens Advice provides:
- Free, confidential advice on energy bills
- Support negotiating with energy suppliers
- Help accessing government schemes
- Guidance on energy debt and disconnections
Their Energy Advice Programme is one of the best starting points for anyone struggling with fuel costs.
National Energy Action (NEA)
NEA is the leading UK charity dedicated to ending fuel poverty. They offer:
- Energy-efficiency advice
- Training and workshops for vulnerable households
- Support accessing home improvements
- Advocacy on energy rights
NEA also runs community projects to help people heat their homes for less.
Energy Saving Trust (EST)
While not a traditional charity, EST is a key non-profit providing expert information on:
- How to reduce energy consumption
- Grants for insulation and renewable heating
- Low-cost home energy improvements
- Energy-efficiency calculators and tools
Their guidance is ideal for anyone wanting long-term energy savings.
Turn2us
Turn2us is a UK charity offering grants and financial aid for households in crisis. You can use their online benefits checker and grants search tool to find:
- Emergency funds for essential living costs
- Charity grants for energy bills
- Support for people on low incomes or with disabilities
Many people don’t realise they qualify for financial assistance until they check.
The British Gas Energy Trust
The British Gas Energy Trust provides energy debt write-off and grants to any UK household, not just British Gas customers. Support includes:
- Grants to clear gas and electric arrears
- Energy efficiency advice
- Local advice centre funding
It’s one of the most generous energy-related charities available.
Age UK
For older people worried about the cost of heating, Age UK offers:
- Winter warmth advice
- Support accessing the Winter Fuel Payment, Warm Home Discount, and local authority grants
- Help with home energy checks
- Advocacy with energy suppliers
Older adults are among the groups most affected by fuel poverty, making this support essential.
Energy Grants and Schemes You May Be Eligible For
Warm Home Discount
Most energy charities can help you apply if you’re eligible (low income or certain benefits).
Energy Company Obligation (ECO) Grants
These include funding for insulation, heating upgrades, and home efficiency improvements. Fairway Energy can check your eligibility for this scheme.
Local Authority Grants
Some councils offer Household Support Fund payments or emergency help with energy debts.
Boiler Upgrade Scheme
Support for switching to energy-efficient heat pumps (England & Wales).
How Energy Charities Help You Save Money
Many energy charities offer more than one-off financial support. They can help you:
- Reduce energy waste and lower monthly bills
- Improve insulation or heating systems
- Access free or discounted home upgrades
- Claim benefits you’re entitled to
- Avoid energy debt escalating
Even small changes can add up to big savings over a year.
How to Access Help Today
If you’re struggling with your energy bills, you’re not alone-and support is available. Here’s how to get started fast:
- Contact Citizens Advice for free energy advice and guidance.
- Check eco grant eligibility through the Fairway Energy website
or call us now on 0151 559 1563. - Apply for debt support via the British Gas Energy Trust.
- Visit NEA or Energy Saving Trust for energy-saving help.
- Speak to your energy supplier-they often work with charities to provide extra support.
Gary is the Operations Manager at Fairway Energy and a specialist in renewable energy and technology, with over 15 years’ experience. He has in-depth expertise in energy-efficient measures for residential properties and UK government-backed grant schemes and funding.