Struggling to Afford Electricity and Gas? Fuel Bank Foundation Are Here to Help

At IE Hub, we are proud to partner with Fuel Bank Foundation to help families in need. They provide emergency electricity and gas to people who have run out of power. Together, our hope is to help families stay warm and manage their finances better.

To hear about the help that Fuel Bank Foundation do, listen to the below episode of Pocket Perspectives Podcast.

What Fuel Bank Foundation Does

Fuel Bank Foundation gives emergency electricity and gas to people living in fuel crisis. Especially those who use prepayment meters. These meters stop working when the money runs out, leaving homes cold and dark. This is when the foundation steps in to quickly restore power.

Understanding Fuel Crisis

Fuel Bank Foundation identified people who cannot afford to pre-pay for their fuel or energy. 

This means that when their money runs out, their lights and heating stop working immediately. This is a “fuel crisis”. Fuel Bank helps by giving these families emergency energy credits so they can stay warm and safe.

How Prepayment Meters Can Be a Problem

Prepayment meters help people budget their money, but they also have a downside. When the money runs out, the power stops right away. This can be very stressful. Fuel Bank Foundation also works with community groups to find and support people quickly.

Our Role at IE Hub

At IE Hub, we help people manage their finances after Fuel Bank restores their power. We provide a free, online tool to help families create a budget, check for benefits, and manage their debts. This support is crucial because it’s hard to focus on financial planning when your home is cold and dark.

The work we do together with our chairty partners make a big difference. For example, parents can tell their kids they can have a warm bath or a hot meal, bringing back a sense of normal life. These small victories mean a lot and help people feel more hopeful.

Addressing the Bigger Issue: Poverty

The real issue is poverty, not just prepayment meters. Many people prefer prepayment meters because they help with budgeting. But these meters can also cause problems. Fuel Bank work extremely hard to find ways to make prepayment meters work better for people.

Working Together with Fuel Bank Foundation

Our partnership with Fuel Bank allows us to provide a wide range of support. When people receive emergency energy, they also get a text from us at IE Hub. This message invites them to use our services to manage their finances better. Together, we make sure families get the help they need to move towards stability.

Tips from Fuel Bank Foundation for Saving Energy

Here are some simple tips to manage your energy use:

1. Talk to Your Energy Provider: If you’re worried about your bills, contact your energy company. They can help with payment plans and advice. If this is difficult for you, you can let your energy provider know what you can/can’t afford by using IE Hub online for free.
2. Watch Your Usage: Use smart meters or apps to keep track of your energy use.
3. Get Extra Help: Ask your local council or housing provider for help with energy-saving tips and financial support.

To find out more about Fuel Bank Foundation or to get support, head to www.fuelbankfoundation.org