Thread by @timboxall

1) First #energy bill received since smart meter installation?

£174.08.

I'm a single, #disabled man living in a 1 bed flat. I can't afford to put the #heating on. I only shower twice a week now. I barely use the oven/hob/kettle. I'm rationing lighting, for goodness sake.

2) There's nothing else I can cut back on. The cold makes my #MultipleSclerosis worse, but I'll have to ensure it. But because I'm on the wrong legacy #benefits I don't get energy assistance, so I'm stuck spending the equivalent of 2 weeks rent solely on energy.

3) How is this right in a supposedly civilised country? Why must we vulnerable & disabled suffer for the sake of shareholders profit? Who will call the energy companies to account? Not this #government for certain, but we infirm, disabled, & vulnerable just cannot live like this

4) Energy prices in the UK are among the highest in the world. Welfare benefits are among the lowest. This disparity will, and I'm not exaggerating, cause the deaths of many of those most in need. I look to the future, and see no light, only despair.

5) I know I'm not the only one, lots have said the same to me. But what can we do? We've no union to strike for us. We've no bargaining power. All we can do is rely on charity, food banks, warm spaces, and the odd crumb thrown from the Government. It's no way to live.

6) I'm going to go make a cup of tea now. It'll be my treat for the day, and doubt I'll have one tomorrow. C'est la vie.

This is how I see things, my reality, feel free to share if you want. Teas brewed, so I'm retreating back to bed 🙂☕

Just in case anyone doubts it! 😂