Words by Smiley Team
While the winter weather persists, charity federation Groundwork is offering virtual support across the UK to deprived households so they can reduce their bills and make their homes more energy-efficient.
Energy-saving experts, called Groundwork Green Doctors, are available to help those in need of extra support via a free telephone consultation. Callers can learn how to save energy, install energy efficiency measures – such as draft proofing – and get advice on how to change energy suppliers and save money by changing tariffs.
Camil from Blackpool, who benefitted from the service this month, said: “I have been really struggling for money as I’ve been on furlough and so only receiving 80 per cent of my usual wage. At the same time, I found out my benefits had been overpaid and I needed to find the money to repay them. I was really scared and just didn’t know where to turn to.
“My neighbour contacted a local councillor who referred me on to the Green Doctors. The Green Doctor contacted me and not only helped me get the benefits payments written off but gave me an energy consultation to reduce my bills.
“I’m grateful because the support really took the pressure off and I feel more felt able to cope financially. I feel like a huge weight has been lifted and I can finally get some sleep.”
The helpline is designed to help a range of vulnerable people, including those on low incomes, living with debt, with poor housing conditions or who live with physical or mental health conditions.
Groundwork Green Doctors typically visit people in their homes to provide bespoke advice but are now offering phone consultations to ensure communities can still access vital support despite limitations caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Find out more and contact your local helpline here.
Groundwork is a charity with the goal of transforming lives in the UK’s most disadvantaged communities. They hope to help people and the environment to thrive, helping individuals gain confidence and skills through training and work, protecting green spaces, and tackling some of the biggest challenges society faces: poverty, isolation, low skills and poor health.
For more information about how you can support or benefit from their work email [email protected] or visit groundwork.org.uk.
