Melba's story

“I am very satisfied, the word itself, ‘Lightning Reach’ really describes it, it gives light to us, especially to me.” 

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Surviving on limited support

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Melba, a 65-year-old woman living alone in Edinburgh, Scotland, is facing several financial challenges. She currently lives in a Link Housing property, where the council covers her rent, but she relies on £65 per week through Edinburgh Council’s migrant support to meet her basic needs. 

 

Managing her limited income has become increasingly difficult with the rising costs of essentials like food, gas, and electricity. Melba currently rations her energy use, however, rising prices have made this hard to achieve. A significant challenge for her is not knowing what additional support she is eligible for, leaving her uncertain about improving her situation.

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Discovering hope with Lightning Reach

 

For the previous two years Mary has relied on vital support from Lightning Reach partner Charis through their Park Homes Warm Home Discount scheme. This is an Ofgem approved scheme, which enables residents living in a park home in England, Wales or Scotland to apply for a £150 payment to help towards the cost of their energy bills. 

 

“Charis has been fantastic, for the last two years I have applied for £150 in energy support, it has been a godsend. I can't thank them enough, they've been amazing.”

 

Discovering a new way to find and apply for support

 

Melba discovered the Lightning Reach portal through an email from Link Housing. She went on to apply for Link Housing’s Welfare Rights Service which provides their tenants access to free and confidential welfare benefits advice. Although she wasn’t sure what to expect, she was encouraged by the potential for support and completed her application.

 

“The response after submission was so quick, I didn’t expect it, I expected a response in 3 working days but got a response in an hour.”

 

Melba was also matched to a variety of support options, including assistance with gas and electricity bills, easing the financial burden that had been weighing on her.

 

“That was amazing, and I was really surprised. I have told my friend that I am so happy that there are organisations that are there to help.”

 

A brighter future

 

The support Melba received through the Lightning Reach portal provided her with immediate relief and peace of mind. In addition to helping her manage her energy costs, Link Housing is now reviewing her situation to see if she qualifies for future benefits. She was also given a number to contact Age UK for further assistance and received a food voucher for a local food bank.

 

“It feels like an overflowing blessing, they are providing support and advice for me.”

 

The impact on Melba’s life has been transformative.

 

“It’s like I have peace of mind from receiving this unexpected blessing, it has helped with my stress.”

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This unexpected support has made a positive impact on her well-being.

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 “Somebody you are not expecting is behind you, extending their hands to help you, you can manage to survive.”

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For Melba, the Lightning Reach portal has not only provided financial support but also given her hope for a more secure future.

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“Never give up, there is always someone to extend help. In every darkness, there is light.”

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Melba’s story demonstrates the power of timely and relevant support, showing how essential it can be in providing relief and improving quality of life during challenging times.

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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