One in three carers across the country live in poverty, and rising energy prices over the cold winter months mean thousands of them are having to choose between basic necessities- do they eat or keep their home warm?
Sarah lives in Eastbourne and has been caring for her elderly mother, who has dementia, for several years. Over the years the support that her mother has needed has increased, and it has got to a point where Sarah has had to give up more of her time to care for her, reducing her working hours and moving in with her. With less money coming in, she is worried about rising costs and how she is going to be able to afford to heat their home, so they can stay warm and safe over the winter. She thinks about this every day, she doesn’t know what to do, or where to turn.
“In previous winters we have kept the heating on all winter long, but I don’t think that can happen this year. There is no way we’ll be able to afford it.”
There are 20,000 carers like Sarah in East Sussex – faced with the prospect of a long, cold winter.
Your generosity today could ensure people like Sarah and her mother stay warm and safe over the winter.
Winter Warmer workshops are practical, life-changing sessions for carers offering financial support, free energy-saving resources, and access to vital grants, plus the opportunity to connect with others in the same situation and reduce loneliness and isolation.
“I wanted to thank you for your wonderful support; you really helped me through each step of the budget plan and benefits checks, the vouchers on offer were a Godsend.”
Sarah attended one of these workshops and received a home insulation bundle that included an electric blanket for her mum’s bed, so she didn’t get cold. And insulation tape to go round all the windows to cut down on the draft. Sarah doesn’t have to worry anymore, she knows that her mum is warm.
You can be the warmth behind the care and change the lives of carers like Sarah and her mum.
- £15 provides free transport and a hot drink for an isolated carer to attend one of the workshops
- £30 covers the cost of one carer to attend a life changing Winter Warmer workshop and receive a free home insulation bundle
- £80 covers the cost of hot drinks and transport for up to 50 isolated carers to attend a Winter Warmer workshop
- £250 covers the full cost of one Winter Warmer workshop, enabling up to 50 carers in financial need to receive vital support, free resources, and reduce their isolation.
Every penny you give, up to £250, will be doubled thanks to the generous support of the Aviva Community Fund- meaning your donation will have twice the impact.
Over 20,000 carers in East Sussex will struggle to keep their homes warm and safe this winter, they need your help.
You can ensure no one has to face the cold this winter.
