When the central heating system failed at the property of a recently widowed Blackpool Coastal Housing resident, he was left without reliable heating or hot water at an already difficult time.
Living with a long-term health condition that affected his mobility, he found it increasingly challenging to manage everyday tasks, maintain his home and seek support independently.
One of Blackpool Coastal Housing’s heating engineers visited the property and confirmed that the boiler was beyond economical repair and needed replacing. However, the resident was living on a limited income and had no realistic way of paying for the work himself. A financial assessment also identified existing debts and commitments that were placing pressure on his household budget.
With support funded through the Cadent Foundation, a caseworker from Blackpool Coastal Housing explored the assistance available and guided the resident through the process. An application was made to the local authority’s Crisis and Resilience Fund, with further charitable funding secured through the service.
Together, these sources covered the full cost of supplying and installing a replacement boiler.
The support, however, went beyond resolving the immediate heating emergency. The caseworker provided practical advice on budgeting, energy efficiency and reducing household bills. The resident was also connected with specialist debt advisers, giving him access to tailored guidance to begin addressing his financial difficulties and work towards a more sustainable position.
The new boiler restored safe, reliable heating and hot water, helping the resident remain warm and comfortable at home. This was especially important because of his reduced mobility and long-term health needs. It also removed the worry and potential risks associated with living in a cold home.
By covering the cost of the replacement, the support prevented further debt and removed a significant source of stress. Combined with budgeting, energy and debt advice, it helped strengthen the resident’s financial resilience and gave him greater stability during a challenging period.
Reflecting on the difference the support had made, he said: I didn’t know where to turn when the heating stopped working. Everything felt overwhelming after my bereavement and while trying to manage my health problems. The support I received took a huge weight off my shoulders and has made a real difference to my life.
Through practical help and personalised advice, the project addressed both an urgent heating crisis and the wider pressures behind it, helping the resident feel safer, warmer and more secure in his home.
Find out more about Blackpool Coastal Housing here.
