For many families, rising energy costs can quickly become overwhelming. For one young single mum in East Ayrshire, balancing household bills while raising young children on a low income became increasingly difficult.
Living on benefits, she was struggling to afford her energy bills, rent and other everyday essentials. Her situation became even more challenging after one of her children was diagnosed with autism, adding extra pressures to family life.
After being referred to Lemon Aid, our advisors took the time to understand her circumstances and identify the support that could make the biggest difference.
Restoring Heat and Hot Water
When we assessed the situation, we discovered the family’s gas supply had been disconnected because they could no longer afford to top up their prepayment meter.
This had a significant impact on daily life. The family’s shower relied on the gas supply, and for her autistic child, warm showers provided an important way to self-regulate and manage sensory overload.
Understanding the urgency of the situation, our advisors gathered the necessary information and quickly applied for emergency support.
Finding the Right Support
Lemon Aid secured emergency fuel vouchers through the Fuel Bank Foundation, helping to restore the family’s gas supply and provide immediate relief.
We also reviewed the prepayment meter and discovered that around 20% of every top-up was being used to repay an outstanding energy debt of approximately £470.
Working with local partners, we secured funding to clear the debt in full, allowing every future top-up to go towards heating and powering the home rather than paying off old debt.
To provide ongoing support throughout the winter, we also helped the family access additional fuel vouchers through partner organisations.
Looking Beyond the Immediate Crisis
At Lemon Aid, we understand that energy problems are often linked to wider financial challenges. Alongside restoring the family’s energy supply, we also arranged:
- A gas safety check after the supply was reconnected.
- Advice on managing energy and using the prepayment meter.
- Referrals for income maximisation and benefit support.
- Budgeting advice and access to additional fuel voucher schemes.
How Lemon Aid Made a Difference
Thanks to coordinated support from Lemon Aid and our partner organisations, the family received:
- £470 of energy debt cleared
- More than £324 in emergency fuel vouchers
- Ongoing access to additional fuel support
- Help with budgeting and income maximisation
- A restored gas supply and a safer home
Most importantly, the family could once again enjoy a warm home, with one less financial worry during an already challenging time.
Need Help with Your Energy Bills?
If you’re struggling to keep up with your energy costs, worried about your prepayment meter, or finding it difficult to stay on top of household bills, Lemon Aid is here to help.