Octopus Energy will continue to supply free electric blankets to customers who need them most this autumn and winter, as part of its broader financial and practical assistance through the Octo Assist scheme. The energy company said it has already handed out more than 110,000 blankets to date, with priority allocated to vulnerable customers, including those whose health leaves them more at risk from cold-related dangers.
Cost and wider support
An energy-efficient electric blanket can keep a person warm for as little as 2-4p per hour. Alongside handing out free electric blankets, Octopus said it has increased its Octo Assist hardship fund by 50%, providing £60m worth of assistance to vulnerable customers through standing charge holidays, debt write-offs, and You-Pay-We-Pay payment matching to help customers clear outstanding debt.
Beyond financial assistance, Octopus said it was the first energy firm 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
Octopus customers can also reduce their outgoings through "Saving Sessions". Via this scheme, households equipped with smart meters can earn rewards for cutting their electricity usage during peak periods - known as Power Down sessions - by making simple choices such as delaying a wash load or doing the dishes by hand rather than using the dishwasher.
Power Up sessions are also on offer during periods when renewable energy is more readily available. Customers will receive rewards for any additional electricity used throughout these sessions, compared to their typical consumption.
Warm Home Discount and how to apply
The Warm Home Discount assists eligible customers in managing their higher winter energy bills. Those who qualify receive a £150 credit 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 individual customer, but may include standing charge holidays, direct financial support in the form of grants to offset high energy bills, personalised account help such as a long-term payment plan or payment holiday, and free electric blankets. A heated blanket can cut hundreds of pounds a year off heating bills by keeping a person warm without needing to heat the whole home.
Octopus is providing electric blankets to the most vulnerable households, with each household entitled to one. 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."
