By The Energy Know How Team, Sharon Smith, Lynn Clarkson & Madiya Shokat
We called in at the Social Supermarket which is run from the minster in town as we had not visited for a while.
The church was quite busy and the groups that have developed in addition to the social networks were setting up, they now have a sewing group, and the craft group has been running for quite some time.
We were welcomed and given a table near to the refreshments area. We were able to speak to quite a few people, all of which were very concerned about current world events and the upcoming consequences on their energy bills.
Free draught proofing measures and energy saving tips were offered which were well received as well as providing thermostats to help people to monitor the temperature in their homes.
One person mentioned he had quite a lot of arrears on his gas, he explained he had previously been on a prepayment meter however, this was updated to a smart meter and was not put in prepayment mode. He has, because of this, accrued arrears of over £1000 as he struggles to budget for quarterly bills.
He is in the process of complaining to his energy provider as he was not clearly informed of the process. He hasn’t had a complaint reference number so was encouraged to ask for this to ensure his complaint had been formally recorded. We also agreed to email him a link to the British Gas energy trust scheme which may be able to help him with his arrears.
This client was very appreciative of the information provided, the staff and volunteers at the Social Supermarket were also pleased to see the energy team and were given an additional supply of our leaflets to distribute to the clients that need them. We will continue to support this valuable service – this was a very rewarding visit