In simple terms, the ScottishPower Hardship Fund is a support scheme that helps customers on lower incomes, or those experiencing financial hardship, clear or reduce unpaid balances on their ScottishPower energy accounts.

If you qualify, your account could be credited with a partial or full payment toward your arrears, easing some of that financial pressure. 

How can the Hardship Fund help?

Unexpected expenses, illness, job loss, it can all throw your finances off course. ScottishPower recognises that, which is why the Hardship Fund exists.

Here’s what it can do for you:

  • Reduce or completely clear energy arrears on your account.
  • Help you set up a realistic payment plan for your ongoing usage.
  • Give you space to breathe financially, so you’re not constantly chasing bills.

Once your application is approved, the fund credits your ScottishPower account directly, so the support goes straight where it’s needed.

Who is eligible?

To apply, you’ll need to meet certain criteria. You could qualify if you receive one or more of the following benefits:

  • Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA).
  • Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA).
  • Income Support.
  • Housing Benefit.
  • Universal Credit.
  • Child Tax Credits.
  • Working Tax Credits.
  • Pension Credit Savings Credit (PCSC).

Even if you’re not on benefits, you may still be eligible if:

  • You have a low household income, or
  • You’ve experienced special circumstances, like a reduction in income due to illness.

Each application is assessed individually, so if you’re unsure, it’s still worth reaching out for help.

Important note: Terms and eligibility requirements can change, so it’s always a good idea to get advice before applying.

How do you apply for the Hardship Fund?

There’s a two-step process:

Step 1: Get free debt advice

Before you apply, you need to speak to a recognised debt advice organisation, like StepChange Debt Charity. They’ll:

  • Help you understand your current financial situation.
  • Advise you on budgeting for energy payments.
  • Tell you if applying for the fund is the right step for you.

StepChange contact number: 0800 138 1111
Opening hours: Mon–Fri 8am–8pm, Sat 8am–4pm
www.stepchange.org

Step 2: Apply through Sigma Connected Support

ScottishPower has partnered with Sigma Connected Support (formerly Social Enterprise Direct) to manage the Hardship Fund. Once StepChange has advised you, you can submit your application to Sigma.

They’ll ask for:

  • Evidence of financial hardship (such as DWP letters).
  • Information about your current energy arrears.
  • Any other relevant personal or financial details.

Sigma contact number: 0121 285 2595
Opening hours: Mon–Fri 8am–5pm
support.sigmaconnected.com/scottish-power-hardship-fund

You can apply online or over the phone, whichever works for you.

How are awards paid?

If you’re approved, Sigma will arrange for the agreed amount to be credited directly to your ScottishPower account, either as a partial or full payment toward your arrears.

But there’s a condition: you’ll need to agree to a new payment arrangement for your ongoing usage. This is usually tailored to your circumstances, ensuring it’s realistic and manageable.

Once everything’s confirmed, Sigma will contact you to let you know the award has been applied. From there, it’s about staying on top of your new plan, and breathing a little easier.

Need more support?

If you’re unsure where to turn, there are other free, confidential debt advice services that can help you make informed decisions.

Try:

Need Extra Help with Energy Efficiency or Insulation?

If you are a ScottishPower customer struggling with fuel poverty or high energy bills, use our eligibility checker to see if you qualify for free energy-saving upgrades.

Government-backed schemes such as:

⚠️ ECO4 has closed to new applications — here’s the help you can get nowECO4 grants are no longer available. See the grants and funding you can get now.
  • ECO4 (Energy Company Obligation) – Offers free home upgrades such as insulation, new boilers, or heat pumps to improve your home’s energy efficiency and reduce long-term bills.
  • GBIS (Great British Insulation Scheme) – Provides funding for cavity wall, loft, and other insulation measures, especially if you’re in a lower Council Tax band or receiving means-tested benefits.

These schemes are designed to lower your energy costs for the long term, not just give short-term relief. Check your eligibility today and see what support your home could be entitled to.