British Gas sending out letters to two million customers worth £300 each

Letters are set to land on the doormats of two million British Gas customers with a £300 winter fuel payment reminder after a Labour Party government eligibility shake-up. British Gas will write to two million people of pension age and above.

It will be encouraging them to take up Pension Credit from the Department for Work and Pensions ( DWP ) if they are eligible. The company is also set to reopen its annual winter scheme, providing financial help for customers as we approach Christmas.

Pension Credit is designed to top up the income of the UK's poorest pensioners. In itself the payment is a vital lifeline for older people with little income. It will take weekly income up to to £218.15 if you’re single or joint income to £332.95.

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The winter fuel payment is worth up to £300 but is now being restricted to pensioners claiming Pension Credit. Chris O’Shea, CEO of Centrica, parent company of British Gas: “While it’s good news that food and energy prices are lower than they were at the start of the crisis, for many households the struggle to keep up with the cost-of-living is far from over. At the end of each week or month there will be those that have little, if any, money left after paying for life's essentials. We are committed to ensuring that all pensioners are fully informed about their eligibility for Pension Credit, which can make a significant difference in their financial wellbeing.

“It’s our responsibility as the nation’s leading energy supplier to provide support for our customers in addition to the help offered by Government, and that’s why we’ve put £140 million into supporting those who need help the most in addition to our ongoing commitment to the amazing team at the British Gas Energy Trust.”

British Gas has also partnered with the Post Office to deliver face-to-face money and energy advice sessions in local branches across the UK this winter. These sessions aim to reach more people to raise awareness of the help and support available, including financial assistance like Pension Credit.