Centre helps people in tears over energy costs

A woman who sought help with her energy bills at a community centre says she was reduced to tears when she heard costs would rise again in April.

Patsy Graham, 60, said she found her electric and gas bills hard to understand and turned to the Walsall Energy Action Project in the West Midlands for help.

In February, Ofgem announced it would be increasing the energy price cap by 6.4% from April.

"I was listening to the news and I heard about the increase and I started to cry. It's very hard," Ms Graham told the BBC.

She turned to the hub for help, a place where she also volunteers, and praised their support.

"They are so nice, helpful and kind here. They don't look down on you; if you are sad you feel happy and when I come here I always smile," she said.

Ms Graham was not alone in instantly seeking support when news of the energy price cap rise was revealed, according to David Taylor.

He manages the Ryecroft Community Centre, one of six community centres to benefit from the action project.

"As soon as the price cap was announced we saw the demand go up more or less within the hour," he said.

The project, funded with £1.5m from the National Lottery in 2024, offers free advice on bills with one-to-one sessions, group meetings and home visits.

Mr Taylor said they helped one person cut their annual energy bill by £5,000 after they reached out for help.

"We've had some really good success stories and that's what it's all about," he added.

Hafiz Khan said going to the hub helped with his mental health. He used to work in security but cannot any longer due to an injury.

"I've been waiting for medical help for a long time. I can come here and talk to people," he said.

"I think everyone has struggled with their bills, they are very expensive."

Ayesha Siddiqa, 18, from the Aaina Community Hub, said they help Asian women with their bills and many of them struggled to understand them.

Council tax in Walsall, like many parts of the England, will also rise in April and she said that was adding to their stress.

"They get confused and overwhelmed at all the bills coming through the door," Ms Siddiqa said.

"I give them a safe space to educate them on their bills and help them understand everything."

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