A diocesan initiative has helped over 240 people with their energy bills during the cost-of-living crisis.
In 2023 Connecting Canterbury provided hundreds of energy vouchers for local residents struggling to make ends meet.
The initiative is part of the charity Social Justice Network and provides support to people in times of need, whether that be with debt, housing benefits, finances, budgeting, or mental health.
One service user said: “Connecting Canterbury was a godsend when I was running low on electricity. It enabled me to receive a voucher for my energy supplier so I could top it up when I was in times of financial difficulty.”
Another said: “The help from Connecting Canterbury has allowed me to get a freezer for my new flat, saving me a ton of money and stress when it came to cooking.”
Volunteers at Connecting Canterbury are available to listen to and help Canterbury residents in need. It provides internet access and there are people on hand to assist with form filling, as well as signposting to other services and organisations.
Connecting Canterbury Team Lead Helen Netherton said: “I am really pleased to be able to help so many people with their energy during this cost-of-living crisis. The work is an enactment of the love, grace, mercy and compassion that we are shown by God.”
Connecting Canterbury partner with charity Acts435 to help provide energy vouchers and financial support to those in need, as well as working closely with Canterbury City Council.
A member of staff from Housing at Canterbury City Council said: “Connecting Canterbury is a lifeline to many of my clients. Its support is non-judgemental, and the team go out of their way to help everyone in the community. Without the service, I have clients that would not have been able to access the support they needed.”
If you or someone you know needs help with energy, household items, filling in forms, or signposting to other organisations, Connecting Canterbury can be found at the following hubs:
When? Thursdays 11am-1pm
Where? The Hub, Canterbury Baptist Church, St. Georges Place, CT1 1UT
When? Fridays 10am-12 midday (Tea n Toast 9-10am)
Where? All Saints Community Larder, All Saints Church, Military Road, CT1 1LN
Find out more on the Connecting Canterbury webpage.