Vale of Aylesbury Housing Trust

 “Too expensive, not fair, not value for money” was the overwhelming message from the Trust’s residents about prepayment meters for energy.

Over 1,300 people have signed to say that they want action to reduce premium costs associated with prepayment meters, which can penalise the most vulnerable and put people into debt fuel poverty, through no fault of their own.

The response has been so strong that the Trust has invited local MPs David Lidington and John Bercow to Fairfax House to receive the residents’ letters, so that they can take them back to Parliament and call on new Housing Minister John Healey to effect change.

Some of our residents have shared their own experiences of meters with us.

Mrs C said “There are times in the winter that I just have two hot water bottles for warmth, or go to bed early. Its very miserable and is making me ill. Please help with your influence.”

Mr M said “For £17 gas, I got hot water for three days. I cannot keep up with the meter, it takes the money as fast as I can put it in.”

Mr P told how he was forced to have prepayment meters fitted by his energy supplier when he struggled to meet payments – and that they refused to believe that he was retired. Another resident said he receives just 25p worth on energy, for every £1 he puts in the meter.

Our new Welfare Services Officer will be working with these and other residents to see how the Trust can help them. The campaign for fair and equable treatment for prepayment meter users will continue.

For more details about our campaign, email advantage@vaht.co.uk or call Marketing on 01296 732600.