Life can change in an instant.
Following a serious traffic accident, one East Ayrshire resident suddenly found himself unable to continue working full-time. As he adjusted to life on Universal Credit, he was also coping with reduced mobility, seizures, PTSD, and undergoing tests for suspected gastrointestinal cancer.
Alongside the physical and emotional challenges, everyday bills quickly became overwhelming.
Energy costs, rent, and household finances became increasingly difficult to manage, leaving him feeling anxious about the future.
After being referred to Lemon Aid by a Neighbourhood Coach within East Ayrshire Council’s Welfare Rights Team, our advisors began working closely with him to understand his circumstances and identify the support available.
Taking Time to Build Trust
During our first conversations, it became clear that the client was feeling overwhelmed.
Managing a significantly reduced income, while dealing with serious health conditions, had made budgeting extremely difficult. The stress of unpaid bills was affecting both his mental wellbeing and his recovery.
Our advisors took the time to build trust, adapting our communication to meet his individual needs and ensuring he felt comfortable throughout the process.
Once we fully understood his situation, we were able to begin finding practical solutions.
Helping Reduce Energy Costs
After reviewing his energy accounts, we discovered that although he had smart meters installed, he was paying for his energy after receiving each bill.
We explained how setting up a Direct Debit could make budgeting easier and provide more predictable monthly payments.
However, there was another significant challenge. The client had built up around £1,100 in energy debt, making it even harder to get back on track.
Working alongside local partners, we successfully secured funding to clear the debt entirely. This meant future payments would only cover the energy he was using, rather than repaying old debt.
To help reduce his anxiety, Lemon Aid remained with him throughout conversations with his energy supplier, explaining information clearly and advocating on his behalf.
Looking Beyond Energy Bills
At Lemon Aid, we know that energy problems are often only part of a much bigger picture.
While supporting the client, we also identified around £300 of rent arrears and recognised that he may not have been receiving all the financial support he was entitled to.
We referred him to the Universal Credit Support Team at East Ayrshire Council for income maximisation and additional budgeting support. As a result, he successfully received:
- Adult Disability Payment
- Universal Credit Limited Capability for Work Related Activity
- Support to clear his rent arrears
- Ongoing budgeting and money management advice
How Lemon Aid Made a Difference
Through partnership working and personalised support, Lemon Aid helped secure:
- £1,100 in energy debt cleared
- £300 in rent arrears cleared
- Successful applications for additional benefits
- Improved budgeting support
- Ongoing advocacy with energy suppliers
- Better financial stability and peace of mind
Our experienced advisors provide free, impartial and non-judgemental support tailored to your situation.