Advent Calendar Day 8: James’ story
James* was shocked when he received a bill from his energy supplier for £19,000 out of the blue two years ago.
After trying unsuccessfully for two years to get answers from his supplier about this bill and how this amount of arrears had been accrued, he contacted National Energy Action earlier this year for help.
He was told on numerous occasions by his supplier that he would be called back to discuss the matter further, but the calls never came, and he was never provided with historic energy use statements that he asked for.
The amount of debt and length of time it was taking to resolve this issue had a severe impact on James’ mental wellbeing. Once he contacted us, our adviser provided James with energy vouchers and a Winter Warmth Support Pack filled with items to keep him warmer and give some immediate relief and comfort.
Then our adviser got on with a series of weekly phone calls to the energy supplier on James’ behalf, which eventually resulted in the supplier acknowledging the £19,000 as ‘fictitious debt’ possibly occurring because two meters had previously been removed from the property. The ‘debt’ was completely written off, leaving James with neutral balance on his account and putting an end to two years of worry and stress.
The help we provide is only possible because of the incredible support we receive. Your generosity can change lives and mean more people like James 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.