EDF Energy has provided an update on its £1 million Heatwave Relief initiative, launched in early July to support vulnerable households during rising temperatures. According to EDF, 92 per cent of the requests for assistance have originated from customers identified with high-risk conditions under the Priority Services Register.
The scheme offers financial aid and practical resources, including £20 energy credits and Heatwave Relief Packs designed to help customers stay cool. Each pack contains four complementary items: a fan, a cooling towel, blackout curtains, and an insulated water bottle.
Customers have expressed appreciation for the support through positive feedback on Trustpilot, praising both the contents of the packs and the assistance received during the application process. Mrs Pamela Ruffles described her Relief Pack as “incredible” and said it would “help me enormously.” Sandra Sheridan commented that she was “really pleased with what was actually in the pack,” adding that “everything was so useful.” Another customer, Arlynne, mentioned that her children had been struggling with the heat and wished she had known about the support sooner. Several other reviewers acknowledged EDF advisers for simplifying the application process and for clearly explaining the available help.
Joe Souto, Director of Retail at EDF, stated: “As summers become hotter and extreme heat periods more frequent, we need to rethink how we support vulnerable customers. For many, keeping cool can be challenging and expensive, so straightforward measures can make a significant difference.
“The feedback we’re receiving highlights why this support is vital. We want customers who find the heat difficult to know they don’t have to manage it alone.”
Jessica Taplin, CEO of Charis, the organisation assisting with package distribution, added: “We are proud to partner with EDF to provide practical and targeted support to those who need it most.
“By combining financial aid, cooling equipment, and trusted advice, this programme acknowledges that vulnerability does not end when winter does.
“As our climate evolves, so too must the support provided to vulnerable households. We hope this initiative encourages broader recognition of the need to protect consumers from extreme heat as part of comprehensive customer support, alongside traditional winter assistance.”