Anne’s story: tackling energy debt for a fresh start

Bridport, Dorset

Anne was referred to the portal by E.ON Next and received:

• A £200 cash grant from the National Benevolent Charity

• A new microwave from the E.ON Next Energy Fund

"I feel human again with this money. It has really, really made a difference. It couldn't have come at a better time."

We recently spoke with Anne, who is no stranger to how quickly financial challenges can cause life to spiral. After a business failure caused her company to shut down, leading to the loss of her home and the breakdown of her marriage; she found herself facing domestic abuse and homelessness.

For a time, she was forced to sofa surf or sleep in a tent, but with the help of the police and a local women’s refuge, she eventually secured a flat in Bridport. While she had found a safe place to live, rebuilding her life on Universal Credit proved difficult. As everyday costs and energy prices rose, she tried to manage her household costs on a limited budget, causing her to accumulate substantial debt.

With winter approaching, the pressure was mounting; she found herself worrying about how she would afford food and other essentials.

"When it goes wrong, it really goes wrong, doesn't it? You go down very quickly when things spiral out of your control and you've got no money."

Fast access to vital energy debt support

Looking for a way forward, Anne contacted E.ON Next for help, who referred her to the Lightning Reach portal for financial support. She signed up and completed her profile, finding it easy and straightforward. As Anne banks with TSB, who are also a Lightning Reach partner, there was also the option of being referred by the TSB team, making her likelihood of finding support even stronger.

Based on her circumstances, she matched to the National Benevolent Charity’s Home is Where the Harm Is campaign, delivered in collaboration with Lightning Reach. After completing an application, within one day, she received a £200 grant, which she was able to withdraw anonymously from a cash point. 

She also received a new microwave through the E.ON Next Energy Fund to replace a rusty, dangerous one that had become a fire risk.

"I couldn’t believe it. For the support to come so quickly - I just can't fault it."

Reducing financial pressure and planning ahead

The support gave Anne immediate peace of mind. The £200 meant she could finally look ahead without worry, knowing she could afford food, and other household essentials. 

It has also given her the financial space to move her repayment plans forward with E.ON Next. Instead of waiting until she receives her pension in May, she now feels confident enough to start a sustainable payment plan in January.

Anne is now looking toward the future with optimism, hoping to eventually move into a small bungalow that is better suited for her dog. She encourages anyone else facing similar struggles to reach out and speak to people for help, rather than trying to handle everything alone.

“I urge everybody to use Lightning Reach, there will be something there for you.”

Get help today

Could you or someone you know benefit from financial support? Create your account today at www.lightningreach.org/application-portal to see what you're eligible for.