Advent Calendar Day 14: Frieda’s story
Frieda*, 61, lived alone in socially rented accommodation and was living with multiple long-term health conditions including arthritis, asthma, hypertension, and kidney disease. Because of her ill health, she’d been in and out of work for a while and had experienced financial problems as a result, leading to arrears on both her gas and electric accounts.
When Frieda initially got in touch with National Energy Action it was for support with her fuel debt. She had been rationing her energy use to avoid falling into further debt but that meant her home was cold and at risk of damp.
Our adviser provided Frieda with fuel vouchers and a Winter Warmth Support Pack filled with items to keep her warmer for immediate comfort. They also gave Frieda lots of energy efficiency advice which she could put into action to keep her home warmer at an affordable level.
To support Frieda in the longer term, our adviser helped her apply for a grant through her supplier’s trust fund, which was approved, and Frieda was awarded £259.
Our adviser also arranged for Frieda to receive an air fryer, slow cooker and microwave through one of our hardship funds, to help further reduce her gas costs going forward.
The help we provide is only possible because of the incredible support we receive. Your generosity can change lives and mean more people like Frieda 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.