The £30 Million Winter Package
EDF is putting £30 million into support for vulnerable customers during 2026/27. Of that, £6 million goes into its Customer Support Fund for debt relief and debt-matching, on top of the £24 million already earmarked for existing services. Last year the same fund cleared around £2.5 million in arrears, and more than 85% of those helped stayed debt-free after twelve months.
Who Gets Help and How
The money covers electrical goods such as heaters, free gas safety checks, support for partially sighted customers, and partnerships with Scope and Age UK. One customer referred by Citizens Advice Plymouth had built up more than £4,000 in debt linked to disability-related energy use; after support the household is now on track to clear the balance within nine months. Another customer who had stopped engaging with their account due to mental health issues set up a Direct Debit and remains debt-free.
Jessica Taplin, Chief Executive of Charis, said: “Winter is already a difficult time for households struggling with energy costs, and this year brings further pressure. The energy price cap rose in October, just as people begin to use more energy to heat their homes, with further rises expected from January.”
Chris Larkin, Executive Director of Dementia Support and Partnerships at Alzheimer’s Society, said: “We know that financial difficulties can create stress and anxiety, and we recognise EDF’s commitment to supporting their vulnerable customers with measures designed to reduce debt and improve financial resilience.”
Joe Souto, Director of Retail at EDF, said: “Our experience shows that targeted support can make a real difference, which is why we're directing our efforts towards helping customers reduce debt, regain control of their finances and build greater financial stability for the future.”
Why Debt Is Rising and What It Means
Energy debt has doubled in three years and now affects more than five million households, with 75% of that debt carrying no repayment plan. The cost of unpaid bills is already adding around £60 to the average domestic bill. We explain the current price cap and how different tariffs compare on our energy pages. Anyone struggling should contact their supplier early; the schemes work best when households are referred promptly by charities or advice services.
