Case study: Savings and a new budgeting plan for Mr S

Mr S is a single unemployed male suffering from depression and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. He's socially isolated and rarely leaves his flat.

His mother was his sole source of support for money management but she passed away a year ago and since then his depression has become worse. He is struggling financially with bills, including his energy bills. 

Following a call to update his register details, WPD referred Mr S (at his request) to a partner agency who could offer fuel poverty assistance.

The agency arranged a payment plan with the Local Authority for council tax arrears. They completed a ‘Big Difference Scheme’ application, and Mr S was successfully awarded 90% discount. The agency also made an application to the British Gas Trust Fund regarding Mr S's energy arrears, and supported Mr S with creating a budget including a written list of outgoings fortnightly to tie-in with his benefits. Finally, the agency completed a Warm Home Discount application.

This resulted in a total saving of £1,148 for Mr S.

For more information, visit our priority services register and addressing fuel poverty pages.