Beneficiaries' stories - Case studies 13 - 18

Keeping out the cold

In 1991, Melvyn Rolfe started up his own electrical business. However, in 1995 he developed a spinal degenerative condition and is now registered disabled.

His wife Jane, is disabled too. They both receive Disabled Living Allowances and Incapacity Benefits, but they had to sell their home and their business to clear their debts.

Needing somewhere to live, they decided with the little money that they had left, to buy a second hand mobile home.

The new home had no insulation and was incredibly cold, leaving them with a large gas bill. They contacted the EEIBA and asked for help. EEIBA was able to confirm a grant to clear the outstanding bill.

In the meantime, they had contacted their local council for assistance with the cost of insulation. But as it is a mobile home, the council refused. The local EEIBA Welfare Assistant got to work.

The best estimate for insulation and repairs required came to £5,200. It was decided that a grant would be considered towards this cost when more funding had been researched.

Other charities were approached and with their help, £5,200 was donated to ensure the Rolfe's will be warm this winter. Melvyn said, "Without your help we would be facing another cold, miserable winter. We cannot believe how cosy our home has become."

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