Octopus Energy will continue providing free electric blankets to customers who need them most this autumn and winter, as part of its wider financial and practical support through the Octo Assist scheme. The energy provider said it has already distributed more than 110,000 blankets to date, with priority given to vulnerable customers, including those whose health makes them more susceptible to cold-related risks.
Cost savings and expanded hardship fund
An energy-efficient electric blanket can warm a person for as little as 2-4p per hour. In addition to distributing free electric blankets, Octopus said it has boosted its Octo Assist hardship fund by 50%, delivering £60m worth of support to vulnerable customers through standing charge holidays, debt write-offs, and You-Pay-We-Pay payment matching to help customers reduce outstanding debt.
Beyond financial help, Octopus said it was the first energy supplier to have an in-house social worker team. "Our specialists carry out 400 interactions each month, providing invaluable one-to-one support that goes far beyond energy bills".
Saving Sessions and Power Up rewards
Octopus customers can also cut costs during "Saving Sessions". Through this initiative, households with smart meters earn rewards for reducing electricity consumption at peak times - Power Down sessions - by making choices such as postponing the laundry, or washing dishes by hand instead of running the dishwasher, reports the Mirror.
Power Up sessions are also available during periods when renewable energy is in greater supply. Customers will receive rewards for any additional electricity consumed throughout these sessions, compared to their usual usage.
Warm Home Discount and Octo Assist help
The Warm Home Discount helps eligible customers cover their high winter bills. Customers who qualify receive a credit of £150 towards their energy bills before 31 March 2027. The qualification date for the Core Group Scheme 2026/2027 is 23 August 2026. You or your partner who meet the Core Group eligibility must be named on the electricity bill on 23 August 2026.
Support from the Octo Assist fund is tailored to each customer, but might include: standing charge holidays, direct financial support, personalised account help, and free electric blankets. A heated blanket can cut hundreds of pounds a year off your heating bills by keeping you warm without needing to heat the whole home.
How to apply for a free electric blanket
Octopus are offering electric blankets to the most vulnerable homes. It is one electric blanket per household. The first step is to apply to the Octo Assist fund. Octopus said: "A human will have a look at the health of your account and information you give us during the application process to inform a decision. You'll hear from us in about a week."
