A touch of sparkle for Suzie at Christmas

Suzie’s story

Everyone is dealing with increasing energy costs and for some there is a real sense of desperation in trying to meet rising bills. For Suzie, who has worked as a self-employed furniture maker for many years, the crisis was biting hard.

In the run up to Christmas, Suzie experienced a serious drop-off in trade, and she was becoming ever more reliant on child tax credits and other welfare benefits to support her and her young daughter.

Her situation had got so dire that she turned off her heating as her energy bills were spiralling out of control. It was at this point that Suzie reached out to us to seek help with her situation.  Within a few days of her enquiry, we had awarded Suzie with a grant to settle her last energy bill, with a little extra for Christmas. 

Suzie was delighted with the decision, which meant she could turn her heating back on. We also gave her advice on where to seek additional help with rising energy prices.

Suzie said: “I am so happy and relieved. I honestly cannot thank The Furniture Makers’ Company enough. I have received so much more than I hoped. The grant will enable me not just to financially survive the next month but to have a cosy Christmas with presents waiting under the tree for my child. Thank you so, so, much.”