'Last year I didn't know if I'd be able to feed my kids or heat our home... now we have a lifeline'
25.11.2023 - 13:53
/ manchestereveningnews.co.uk
When Rachel Trelawney was made redundant during the Covid-19 pandemic, it was the 'toughest period of her life.'
The mum-of-three from Stockport, now works at a local supermarket, but she says it's not enough to pay her bills. Last year, she didn't know whether she'd be able to afford decent food and heat.
She is one of many people in the borough who are eligible to receive a voucher from the local council to help pay for her heating bills and food in the current cost of living crisis.
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The Stockport scheme has been reintroduced by the council to help support families during the winter and is being funded by the Department for Work and Pensions.
Rachel said: “This kept us warm during winter, it kept us fed. Last year was horrific before the scheme, working out everything I didn’t know if I would be able to afford decent food and heat.
She continued: “I currently work at a supermarket and it’s just not enough to pay the bills. I don’t have anyone else to support me either so these are so good for my family.”
The vouchers have proven in the past to help families who are struggling, making them an essential for residents who need to brace for colder temperatures and rising living costs.
To be eligible, families should either be receiving Free School Meals in Primary and Secondary school and those who live with dependents in receipt of Local Council Tax Support and/or Housing Benefit.
Rachel was working in a better position in an accounting job however, the company she was originally with made her redundant