EDF ENERGY TRUST FUND AWARENESS CAMPAIGN

Thurrock Citizens Advice Bureau is working in partnership with EDF Energy Trust to promote applications to the Trust and raise awareness of the Trust programmes and access to other fuel poverty programmes.

As part of this project, we are also working to increase provision of debt advice to clients facing utility debts.

The EDF Energy Trust Fund was established in 2006 and is completely independent of EDF Energy. The Trust is governed by a board of independent board of trustees and the day to day administration of the Trust is undertaken by Charis Grants Ltd. The primary aim of the Trust is to assist people in clearing energy debts and making a fresh start with their energy bills.

Who can apply?
Any domestic customer of EDF Energy or account holder in the household can apply for this grant.

• How can the Trust Help?
  The Trust can help people through giving grants to:
  
  • Cover or clear the payment of gas and electricity debts/arrears
  • In certain circumstances help with other essential household debts or cost
  
  What to apply for:
  
  • Applicant can apply for award of grants for the relevant utility (gas or electricity) debt
  • Further Assistance Payments (FAP5). This is a one off payment for the purchase of certain essential household items.
  • In exceptional cases, payment for other household costs like rent, telephone debts, council tax/community debts and water debts.
  • Quality of life payments, where a payment could be made where applicants are suffering from severe hardship, distress, illness etc.
  • Help with payment of Bankruptcy and Debt Relief Orders deposits.
  
  What cannot be applied for?
  
  • Fines for criminal offences
  • Education or training needs
  • Holidays
  • Medical equipment/aid
  • Debts and other non-secured loans
  • Business debts
  • Overpayment of benefits
  • Deposits to secure accommodation
  • Catalogue/credit card/ personal loan
  • Debts to local/central government e.g. Tax and NI

All applicants should apply to Thurrock Citizens Advice Bureau for an appointment with the Trust Project Officer.