Overcoming Loneliness and High Energy Bills: Sheila’s Story
At Groundwork, we believe nobody should have to sit in a cold house or feel like they have no one to talk to.
Life in Blackpool became very difficult for 84-year-old Sheila after her husband passed away. Because she was living on a small pension, she was worried she couldn’t afford her heating bills. To try and save money, she started eating less—often having just one meal a day—and she stayed at home alone to keep costs down.
I was trapped by bills and I didn’t know what to do.
“I was trapped by bills and I didn’t know what to do,” Sheila says. “Being worried about money made me feel really sad and lonely.”
Everything changed when she visited the nearby At the Grange community hub, which is managed by Groundwork, in partnership with Blackpool Council.
Finding Connection at @TheGrange Blackpool
@TheGrange is a community centre, where people can go to stay warm, have a chat, and meet new people. Sheila didn’t just find a warm building; she found a whole new group of friends!
She now meets up every day with a group she calls the “Grange Girls”. They talk, laugh and support each other. Despite being in her 80s, Sheila still helps out as a volunteer.
“@TheGrange saved me from being lonely. I feel much more relaxed now.
Meeting the Green Doctors
While Sheila was making friends, she also met a Green Doctor named Rachel.
Green Doctors are experts at helping people to save energy and reduce their fuel bills. Rachel gave Sheila some simple tips to keep the heat inside her home without spending a lot of money.
How Green Doctors Help Reduce Energy Bills:
- Radiator Foil: They put shiny foil behind her radiators to bounce the heat back into the room instead of letting it escape through the wall.
- Draught Excluders: They blocked up gaps under doors where cold air was sneaking in.
- Warm Kit: They gave her a heated blanket and a hot water bottle to keep her cozy.
Green Doctors can provide different kinds of support, whether that’s advice on paying off debt with energy or water companies, or spotting other concerns for a referral to other services.
If you are sitting in a freezing house wearing your coat every night, it makes you feel very unhappy. We want to help fix that.
Get Support from Groundwork in Blackpool!
Do you know someone like Sheila? Or would you like to get out of the house and meet some friendly faces?
Come and say hello At the Grange Our community centre is a great place to meet people. Whether you want to join a club or just have a cup of tea, you are always welcome.
📍 Where to find us: 2a Dinmore Avenue, Grange Park, Blackpool, FY3 7 RW.
Ask a Green Doctor for help If your home is cold or your family is worried about energy bills, our Green Doctors have lots of clever ways to keep your house warm and save money.
Green Doctor webpage.
