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Season of good will comes early as Fuel Bank charity sees significant rise in donations

December 6, 2022

A fuel bank charity says it has seen a “significant” increase in donations from the public since the start of the energy crisis.

The Fuel Bank Foundation, the only UK charity that helps people who can’t afford to top up their prepayment energy meter by providing emergency fuel vouchers, has received more than £250,000 in public donations since April.

In total, the charity has received nearly 2,000 donations, with more than £88,000 donated in October alone. Before the energy crisis, Fuel Bank Foundation received only a handful of public donations every year.

Matthew Cole, head of Fuel Bank Foundation, said he has been overwhelmed by the generosity of the public.

We are extremely grateful to those who have felt compelled to help those less fortunate than themselves by donating to the Fuel Bank. As a charity, we receive most of our funding from central and local government, energy companies and other industry organisations, with a very small proportion coming from public donations.

Matthew Cole, head of Fuel Bank Foundation

He continued: “However, the cost-of-living crisis and rising energy bills have put fuel poverty in the spotlight and created greater awareness and understanding amongst the public of the challenges faced by people on lower incomes, which in turn has generated thousands of donations.

“Every day we receive messages from individuals, clubs and various other community groups and organisations who recognise that some people are finding it really tough right now and just want to help.”

Mr Cole said the charity has seen a noticeable increase in donations since households started receiving the Government’s winter fuel rebate. An online social media campaign has also been started to encourage those who can afford it to donate the rebate to fuel and food poverty charities.

“I don’t think it’s a coincidence that donations have increased just as the first of the £66 payments have landed in people’s bank accounts,” he said. “Not everyone feels they need the rebate due to their own financial circumstances and instead have decided to donate the money.

We are aware of the online campaign and we’re flattered that people have got behind it and chosen to support Fuel Bank, recognising the value and positive impact we have on lives.

Matthew Cole, head of Fuel Bank Foundation

“However, as grateful as we are for the donations, we shouldn’t have to rely on the generosity of philanthropic members of the public.”

Fuel Bank Foundation was set up in 2015 to provide emergency fuel vouchers to people at risk of living without heat, light or power in their home because they have no money to top up their gas and/or electricity meter. Since 2015, the charity has supported more than 650,000 people.