Problems paying your bills?

Debbie_Scope

Three-quarters of low income families struggled with their energy bills last year, jeopardising the health of their children, according the charity Turn2us.
The organisation has launched the 'Cut the Cold' campaign in response to their research which found that 78% of low income families faced problems paying their energy bills and were unable to heat their homes enough so that no one felt cold. Used in conjunction with Scope's information pages on Fuel Bills, you can find tips to help with these costs. We would love to hear from you and your tips to keep warm and cut costs.

Socratis

Hi I have no tips, I am very depressed.

Debbie_Scope

Hi Socratis,

Sorry to hear that you're very depressed. Are you ok? Is there anything I can do to help?

Debbie

Socratis

I was diagnosed with Cushings Syndrome at the age of 18 after I had completed my A Levels. As a result I had 8 brain tumours and x8 surgery, Pituitary gland removed, both adrenal glands removed and intensive Radiotherapy between 1994 and 2008. After my x4 brain surgery I was in remission so went to University and completed my training and degree in Law and qualified as a lawyer. Then diagnosed again so further surgery and radiotherapy leaving me in a wheel chair for 2 years, I lost all my memory and my senses and speech, and movement in legs and arms. 2 years of Rehab and determination soon sorted it out. Went back to work (criminal specialist). But was then diagnosed with Fibromyalgia and Degenerative Muscle disease, I carried on working but was in constant pain and shattered.
I left work and went back to University to do my Masters in Education as I thought a less stressful job would be better than serious crime and fraud!

My body has just given up on me and my mind is slowly going. I am so depressed. Can barely afford mortgage payments and bills and struggling so much financially.

If I stay at home I know my depression will get worse plus I am on at least 13 different types of medication and my memory well I just us my electronic diary to write everything in or I would be lost.
I am in constant pain day and night. Unbearable pain. I would like to work again but I would want to do something part-time preferably an understanding Employer.

Until I am back on my feet I am worried that my electric and gas will be cut off,
Sorry for the rant. I am just sleeping and crying as am at a loss.

Still have problem ms with memory as a result of radiotherapy and

Debbie_Scope

I'm really sorry to hear what a tough time you're going through at the moment. You really have been through a lot and you have some fantastic achievements under your belt. You should be proud of those achievements.

There are lots of things we can explore to help you get back on your feet. 

Firstly have you spoken to your GP about how you're feeling emotionally? People underestimate how draining it is physically and mentally living with constant pain and I hope that your GP can give you some support with this.

Do you live alone or do you have a partner and/or children with you?

What is your income made up of?

You say that you are worried about having your gas and electric cut off. Have you spoken to your energy providers to tell them about the difficulties you are having with the bills. There are various ways in which they can help so if you haven't already spoken to them it would definitely be worth a call. There is some help you can apply for if you have large arrears bills and information about this is on our website https://www.scope.org.uk/support/disabled-people/money/fuel

I appreciate that you might not want to discuss your personal information in such a public way so if you would prefer some privacy do let me know.

I am happy to talk with you some more and help you find a way forward.

Take care

Debbie