By now, everyone will be feeling the effects of inflation and will have seen increases in household bills. The majority of those we support have a monthly income of between £253-£1,200. Trying to manage on such a small amount is incredibly challenging and no amount of budgeting and cutting back, will help. There’s many that just don’t have enough money to cover the basics. We therefore agree with Martin Lewis (Money Saving Expert), that we need a big policy change, not just for people on Universal Credit, but for all people that are struggling. We shouldn’t therefore be surprised that we have seen huge increases in the numbers asking for help (including cases where one member of the household is working full-time as well as pensioners), coupled with requests for debt advice. We have been talking about this crisis on local Radio and via our Facebook page, Revive Centre Charity. Please follow us for further details.
Thanks to some extra funding from Arnold Clark and an extra £1k the National Emergencies Trust (that we weren’t expecting but are really grateful to receive), we have been able to purchase energy efficient light bulbs, quilts and quilt covers to distribute. The others we have supported this month with your kind donations have included:
- 119 people that needed help with household bills and groceries.
- A young woman who was caring for per mum prior to her passing away. As soon as mum died, and as well as dealing with her grief, her entitlement to carers allowance stopped and she was unable to afford shopping, gas or electric. We felt that she was so young to have such worries and responsibilities on her shoulders, we have therefore done all that we can to help and advise.
- Two widowers that needed urgent support whilst they dealt with grief and funeral arrangements. Thanks to your support, we were able to help with their gas/electric bills and provide a heated throw to keep their loved one warm prior to their passing. I know these two people will always be grateful for your kindness.
It’s been a very challenging time and, whilst we will continue to do all that we can with the resources we have, we have also submitted several funding bids to support our campaign and help even more people, we will continue to keep you all updated.