Amy's story

“It’s had such a positive impact. It was just a massive weight off my shoulders. It really helped with my mental health, knowing that something is actually there to help for once.”

 

The struggle to stay afloat

 

Amy, a primary school teacher and mother of four, was on maternity leave when the cost of living crisis hit her family hard. The reduction in her income meant that even the basics became a struggle.

 

"My rent direct debit was bouncing, and we had increasing arrears. It got to the point where we were putting on extra layers instead of turning on the heating."

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While her partner’s income and Universal Credit initially helped, they soon found themselves ineligible for continued support, leaving Amy in financial uncertainty.

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“This is the first time I've really experienced mental health issues from trying to keep everything afloat. The pressures of everything have taken a toll.”

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The family had to forgo even essential items for the children, including school trips and new uniforms. 

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“There were some school trips my kids couldn’t attend. Food and daily life essentials became challenges; we even had to rely on our local food bank.” 

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At her lowest, Amy's Housing Association, Sovereign Network Group (SNG), referred her to their debt team, who recommended Lightning Reach.

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Discovering Hope with Lightning Reach

 

Amy’s first experience with the Lightning Reach portal was a relief. 

 

"I didn’t have to go through different people, retelling my story. Everything was visual and in one place, and it felt more organised and less overwhelming than my previous searches." 

 

The ease of navigation on her mobile phone helped her quickly complete her profile and explore the options.
 

“I was filling out so many forms at the time, but Lightning Reach was straightforward, and everything was in one place.”

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Amy submitted her first application through the portal to Teaching Staff Trust, a charity that supports people who work or have worked in any education role. She wasn’t expecting a quick response, having previously experienced rejections. 

 

“I didn’t think I’d get a response, or at best, I thought it would be a ‘no, we can’t help.’”

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To her surprise, the Teaching Staff Trust responded quickly.

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“Within a couple of days, I got an email. I had to keep rereading it to believe my luck. It was comforting to hear someone say they’d help.”

 

A renewed sense of stability

 

The grant from Teaching Staff Trust gave Amy a choice: either £1,000 towards rent arrears and £500 for food or the full £1,500 towards her rent debt. She chose to cover her arrears, easing a financial weight off her shoulders.

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“It really helped with my mental health, knowing that something is actually there to help for once.”

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Beyond the immediate financial relief, the support has had a lasting impact on Amy's mental health and family life. 

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“It’s been a massive relief, not just financially but emotionally. It made me proud to be a teacher.” 

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Lightning Reach didn’t just provide monetary support; it gave Amy hope and a path to manage her situation for the future.

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If you or someone you know is looking for support, you can get started on Lightning Reach at www.lightningreach.org/application-portal