Need to know
Octopus Energy has announced it is once again distributing free electric blankets to customers
Customers will be assessed on need(Image: ugurhan via Getty Images)
Need to know: Octopus giving away free electric blankets to vulnerable customers
- Octopus Energy is once again offering free electric blankets to customers most in need, including older people and those with mobility problems or medical conditions affected by the cold.
- The supplier says the blankets typically cost around £50 and could save households up to £300 a year compared with heating the whole home — it has distributed more than 110,000 so far.
- Octopus explained: “One of our boffins realised that some customers were paying to heat their entire homes, even if they lived alone,” adding that an electric blanket could heat a person for just 2–4p an hour compared with around £4 a day to heat an entire home.
- Customers should apply through the Octo Assist fund, with a decision expected within about a week — the scheme is limited to one blanket per household, and prioritises those who cannot afford to buy one themselves.
- Octopus recommends using the blanket as a throw rather than a mattress topper, keeping the connector clear, and notes that the blankets are not suitable for children under five.
READ THE FULL STORY: Octopus Energy free electric blanket scheme 2026 confirmed: who qualifies and how to apply
