“It was surprisingly quick. It took away the worry of having to turn the heating off as the bills went sky high. I just think [the portal] is a brilliant idea. Really helpful, glad I found it!”

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Challenges in keeping warm over the winter months

 

As a Park Home resident, pensioner Karen is doing her best to navigate these tough economic times. With the rising costs of utilities, bills, and food, she has to be extra diligent with her expenditures. This includes changing her food shopping habits and increasing her direct debits for bills to ensure she remains in credit.

 

Having always worked before retiring, Karen faced challenges in the past when seeking a little extra support, as she often found herself ineligible due to not claiming certain benefits. As the cold weather sets in and energy bills continue to rise, Karen recently discovered some support to help her stay warm throughout the winter.

 

Discovering and applying for personalised support via the portal

 

Karen often stays connected with the Park Home community through dedicated forums on sites like Facebook. By participating in the 'Park Homes Forum' and 'Residential Park Homes for Nice People' Facebook groups, Karen discovered the Park Homes Warm Home Discount Scheme, managed by Charis. Karen had never previously heard of either Charis or Lightning Reach but felt confident in applying for the scheme, as it had been shared within the community: 

 

“I thought it would be very secure as it would not have been recommended by the Facebook community group as they are really security savvy. I thought about [applying] for a little while, as my previous experience of looking for support before made me think I wouldn’t be qualified as I’m not on benefits. Eventually I just thought I would give it a go!"

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Discovering and applying for personalised support via the portal

 

After completing her profile, Karen was glad to have been matched with the Charis Park Homes Warm Home Discount scheme and to discover additional support.

 

“I found [the process] really easy, I’m very satisfied, it did the job. I wasn't aware of all this other support before using the Lightning Reach portal -  it's good for them all coming up in one place.”

 

Karen went on to complete and submit her application for review by the Charis grants team.

 

“I can't remember how long it took but it must've been straightforward as I remember it being easy to do. Once my application was submitted my experience with Charis was great, no chasing up with emails or phone calls. I was surprised at how quickly it came through!”

 

A warmer winter eases the stress

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Karen received £150 from Charis towards her heating bills, which has helped her maintain a positive balance with her gas supply. She was also pleasantly surprised by how quickly the entire process took.

 

”I applied on 16th October and received the award on 21st November. It was great to receive the money so quickly. I was surprised that I got the award! It took away the worry of having to turn the heating off as the bills went sky high; Park Homes get quite cold in the winter so any kind of help towards that is a must.

 

Since using the Lightning Reach portal, she has actively spread the word among her neighbours and the Park Home community online.