Advent Calendar Day 7: Lydia’s story
Our adviser met Lydia* at an event in a community centre and was soon convinced that something was amiss with her bills.
On visiting the property and checking her meters, our adviser was able to see that the estimated bills were massively incorrect.
As Lydia had difficulty with her mobility, it made it hard for her to view her meter which was situated in an item-packed basement of a block of flats. Lydia was also struggling with her mental health which made handling the emails and calls from her supplier very difficult. The inaccurate estimations led to Lydia thinking she owed more than £6,500 to her supplier.
Our adviser spoke to Lydia’s supplier straight away and sent the new, correct meter readings. This meant Lydia’s bill was quickly corrected from £6,702 to £257 and she was able to set up a direct debit for her future payments which she now felt confident she could manage.
Her supplier installed a smart meter in her flat, meaning she could monitor her energy use and costs safely in her own home.
Our adviser also sent Lydia a Winter Warmth Support Pack with practical, energy-efficient household items to help her stay warmer at home.
Lydia told our adviser: ‘It’s a huge load off my mind especially after what I have been through.’
The help we provide is only possible because of the incredible support we receive. Your generosity can change lives and mean more people like Lydia 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.