Beneficiary organisations will be charities that help people with rising energy costs

Charities have already received donations from people who do not need energy bill discount

Nearly 120,000 people on prepayment meters will be eligible for around 49,000 vouchers to support them during the cost-of-living crisis

The industry has welcomed the Chancellor’s announcement but has also called for longer-term solutions

Customers on direct debit face energy bill payments of up to £250 per month, according to new research

The Fuel Bank Foundation is receiving the funding to extend its work, which includes providing same-day support to top up prepayment meters for those at risk of disconnection