A single mother living in Wandsworth with her young son was recently awarded £650 from our helping hand fund after hitting financial difficulty.
Ms Js* father had sadly passed away, and she had to contribute towards the funeral costs. This had left her in rent arrears and struggling to pay her utility bills.
She contacted our resident support team because she could not afford to replace her faulty washing machine and oven.. The cost of travelling to and from the laundrette was a further cost she could not afford.
The team assisted her in completing the helping hand application and processed it as a matter of urgency. She was then awarded £500 in Argos vouchers to purchase a new washing machine and oven, as well as £150 in Sainsbury vouchers. In addition, she agreed to an achievable payment plan to pay off her rent arrears.
3.2 million people are living with hygiene poverty in the UK, and the reality of low income is that it restricts people’s options, leaving many caught between being able to heat their home, pay their rent, eat or be clean.
“I was completely floored by the amount of pressure I was under, and your team did their absolute best to remove the pressure, but you also reinstalled my belief in the kindness of people again.
“I feel like a different person, and I will be eternally grateful for your kindness and understanding. My life has changed dramatically in the last 24 hours.”
Ms J*
If you are struggling with any of the issues mentioned in this article, or are unable to pay your rent and bills, do not hesitate to contact us, we are here to help and will support you to stay in your home.
*We cannot provide you with financial advice, but we will always signpost you to support agencies that can.