'Choosing between heating and eating is hard'

More than 600 people have contacted a charity saying they're struggling with their energy bills and heating this winter.

The Community Council for Somerset, in support with Somerset Council, says this winter has been "extremely challenging".

The village agents support people offering everything from advice on heating, electricity bills and offering food vouchers in cooperation with Citizens Advice.

Angela Pinder, from Glastonbury, uses the service and said: "Do you put the heating or do get food? It literally makes you shake inside."

Ms Pinder said she's struggled with money after looking after her mum and rising electric bills.

She continued: "It's been so scary, when you don't have that much money and you have animals, responsibilities and bills.

"The village agents just advise me on everything what's out there.

"I would've been lost without my sunshine girls supporting me."

Laura Marshall, is a village agent for the Community Council for Somerset and has been supporting Angela for the last few months.

She said: "Some people just need a bit of advice on things that you can do around the home to keep a little bit warmer.

"The scheme is about making sure people aren't having to choose between heating their home or food and eating.

"It's hard for people to come forward saying they're struggling, no one should be ashamed. We're always here."

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