Advent Calendar Day 10: Charles’ story
Charles* was initially referred to National Energy Action after a gas leak was discovered in his home. As often happens, as our adviser got to know Charles’ situation, it transpired that he had been struggling with his energy bills and had severely limited his use. As Charles suffers from diabetes, arthritis and carpal tunnel syndrome, limiting heating was having a profound impact on his physical health.
Charles told our adviser: ‘If the heating wasn’t on, I’d sometimes get my hands and try and get them warmed up with hot water in a bowl. But if I came in, and I didn’t do that, my hands would lock really badly, especially when it was cold. It’s just an awful feeling.’
Our adviser referred Charles to our Benefits Entitlement Check Service (BECS), where he received support submitting a Personal Independence Payment (PIP) application. Despite being refused twice before, Charles’ application was successful this time and he was awarded the standard cost of living payment, worth over £4,800 a year, a life-changing difference to his financial situation.
He said: ‘It just helps you get through life a little bit better. Once we got the benefit, I could put the heating on that little bit more. That did help a lot.’
Charles was also supported with applying for a RADAR key (for access to public toilets) and a Blue Badge for his car, which Charles hadn’t realised he could be eligible for: ‘I thought you had to be really disabled to get that’.
Speaking about his experience of receiving support from his adviser, Charles said: ‘It was brilliant. I’d just get on the phone, talk to my adviser, and she said, “Don’t worry,” and she’d calm me down, you know.’
The help we provide is only possible because of the incredible support we receive. Your generosity can change lives and mean more people like Charles can feel warm, safe and secure in their home this winter and beyond.
Support Operation Warmth and help spread warmth and hope this Christmas.
DONATE *Pseudonym used to protect client anonymity.