The British Gas Energy Trust has published its 2026 Social Impact Report, revealing that more than 100,000 people received support during 2025/26 through grants, advice services and community-based programmes designed to help those facing financial hardship.
The report comes at a time when energy debt is forecast to reach £7 billion by the end of 2026 and highlights the growing need for practical support for households across Britain.
Since its launch, the Trust has worked with charities, community organisations and advice partners to help people manage energy debt, maximise household income and build long-term financial resilience. During 2025/26, the Trust:
• Supported 101,100 people through its initiatives.
• Helped 5,421 people through energy debt write-off grants.
• Distributed more than £15.6 million in grants and funding.
• Secured £42.3 million in additional income for clients.
• Helped manage or write off £43 million of client debt.
The report also marks the beginning of a new chapter for the Trust. Earlier this year, British Gas announced a £40 million commitment over the next five years, providing £8 million annually to help expand the Trust’s work and strengthen support for those who need it most.
The funding will enable the Trust to enhance its programmes, deepen partnerships with frontline organisations and develop new approaches to data and insight to better understand and respond to emerging needs.
The publication coincides with the appointment of Maff Potts as the Trust’s new Chief Executive. Having joined in September 2026, Maff brings extensive experience in community-led social impact, public services and partnership working.
Commenting on the report, Maff Potts, Chief Executive of British Gas energy Trust said: "This report provides a clear picture of both the scale of the challenges people are facing and the difference that practical, timely support can make. What stands out to me is the strength of the organisations working alongside the Trust. Their frontline knowledge, relationships and commitment are essential to reaching people who might otherwise struggle to access support. As I begin my role, I want to build on that work. We have an opportunity to strengthen our partnerships, use evidence and insight to improve what we do, and ensure our support continues to respond to the realities people are facing."
Chris O’Shea, Group Chief Executive at Centrica, said: "At a time when energy debt continues to rise rapidly, the work of the British Gas Energy Trust has never been more important. The fact that over 100,000 people turned to the Trust for support last year alone shows the scale of the challenge many households continue to face. British Gas has proudly supported the Trust for more than 20 years and we're committing a further £40 million over the next five years to help thousands more people access the support they need. Last year alone, the Trust distributed more than £15.6 million in grants and funding, helping people manage debt, access vital advice and improve their financial resilience."
The full British Gas Energy Trust 2026 Social Impact Report is available to read online here.
"At a time when energy debt continues to rise rapidly, the work of the British Gas Energy Trust has never been more important. The fact that over 100,000 people turned to the Trust for support last year alone shows the scale of the challenge many households continue to face. British Gas has proudly supported the Trust for more than 20 years and we're committing a further £40 million over the next five years to help thousands more people access the support they need. Last year alone, the Trust distributed more than £15.6 million in grants and funding, helping people manage debt, access vital advice and improve their financial resilience."
Chris O'Shea, Group Chief Executive of Centrica
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