This Ukrainian family have settled well into UK life, however, they have had trouble with their heating system leading to it being constantly running without producing heat. This has obviously led to a big bill, despite them paying a reasonable amount month by month. Their energy company has bent over backwards to help, but they have still been left with arrears which they are paying off. This money, if raised, will serve to help towards this, decreasing the pressure they are under currently.

S, who is struggling to make ends meet, is on benefits and has a two year old child. She has some debt which she has asked Christians Against Poverty to help her with, but regardless of this, the budget is tight. Her cooker recently broke down, but she doesn’t have the resources to be able to replace it. Equally, S needs to be able to cook healthy meals for her and her daughter that fit within the budget which she has, rather than relying on expensive microwave meals.

This lady, who was referred to us by a social worker, has fled from domestic violence and is a single mum trying to care for her four children, one of whom has complex additional needs. Mum has tried really hard to furnish her home by using free sites or buying items second-hand, but as she is on benefits, she is unable to afford a carpet for her living room. This lady has, however, saved £45 which she is able to contribute.