A disabled man has said he “does not expect to be alive this spring” as he faces soaring costs for his energy bills, and has already removed most of the lightbulbs in his house.
He is one of many people to have contacted Sky News to share their stories of how soaring costs are impacting their lives.
Choosing to remain anonymous, he told us: “I lost my job a few years ago, after becoming disabled, and now am only receiving PIP and Contribution-Based ESA, alongside my wife’s wages from her part-time supermarket job.”
He said he faces arrears of £1,800 for his electric bill, £600 for his water bill and £70 for his gas bill.
“We eat one meal each day.
“Most of the lightbulbs have been removed. My house is in a very poor state of repair. My mortgage ended two years ago, but we had a shortfall of around £15,000 so we are still trying to pay that.
“I only qualify for the £150 PIP payment, and the £400 energy bills help. I do not qualify for any other help. This winter we will not be able to turn the heating on and, with my poor health, I do not expect to be alive in the spring.
Should I opt out of my pension and use the money to pay for the rising cost of living?
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“I hope the government learns from its countless mistakes.”
Boris Johnson has admitted that the cost of living support the government is providing is not enough – but has refused to announce any immediate measures to combat spiralling household bills.
Mr Johnson doubled down on his remarks that it will be up to his successor – either Liz Truss or Rishi Sunak – to implement further energy policy, but stressed that “there is more money coming”.
Asked if he believed the government’s package of support was enough, the prime minister told broadcasters: “No, because what I’m saying what we’re doing in addition is trying to make sure that by October, by January, there is further support and what the government will be doing, whoever is the prime minister, is making sure there is extra cash to help people.”
Read more:
‘I eat cereal twice a day’ – cost of living updates
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