Energy firms are giving out free electric blankets, heated throws, mattress toppers and home efficiency kits to help customers stay warm this winter.

As part of their customer support services, some energy companies are offering practical help to customers who are most in need. 

Octopus Energy is offering customers free £65 electric blankets through its £30million Octopus Assist fund.

On its website Octopus says: "One of our boffins realised that some customers were paying to heat their entire homes, even if they lived alone. He did some calculations and found out that where heating a whole home costs around £4 a day, an energy-efficient electric blanket can heat a person for just 2-4p an hour. This means an electric blanket is a vastly more cost-effective way to stay warm."

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They say they only have 10,000, and are offering them to the most vulnerable homes, with one electric blanket per household, to help as many people as possible.

The criteria isn't listed, but the website says: "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."

The combination of falling temperatures, and the news that energy prices are to increase again, shivering households are looking for ways to save energy.

Ovo Energy is also offering products as part of its new Extra Support Package to help customers who need some additional help managing and paying for their energy. 

The scheme opened on October 1 and offers electric throws, mattress toppers, and home efficiency kits to households through a £50million customer support package.

There's a an application form for customers, and the guidance says:

"When you apply for support, things like household income, any disposable income, and medical needs will be taken into account –  to help prioritise those who need help most.

"We won’t be able to offer everything to everyone – but we’re hoping to help as many people as possible. Our specialist teams will be available to speak to any of our customers who are worried about energy costs."

This is on top of the major providers offering their regular Warm Homes Discounts, a £150 payment to help eligible, low-income homes with the cost of their energy bills over the winter.

To qualify for the Warm Home Discount, customers must have an account with one of the participating electricity suppliers.

They must also claim either the Guarantee Credit portion of Pension Credit or, if they have high energy costs, a different ‘qualifying benefit’ such as the Savings Credit portion of Pension Credit, Universal Credit or Housing Benefit.

Check with your supplier for details.