I was a person who always worked. I was a self-employed live-in carer, but in 2016, the work became less and less, so I sought an employer. I was then made redundant in 2017. In 2020, I became a widow.
I’m now on Universal Credit, but at 64, I find it very difficult to find work that I can do, now that my physical health is deteriorating. It makes me feel low – like I have low self-worth. I don’t like that I can’t provide for my family and can’t keep up with my outgoings. It’s soul destroying.
A lot of people like myself experience stress-related illnesses. When your circumstances change, like mine have, it greatly impacts all of your life, and leaves you with a bleak future.
You lose friends because you lose the ability to socialise. Friends and family fall away because you’re not interesting anymore.
I feel guilty and embarrassed coming to the foodbank. I come from a generation of women that work and provide for their family and never ask for help. Here I am, forced to ask for charity.
Hopefully my government pension will start in two years’ time and things will get easier. I’m hoping I’ll be able to move to a more appropriate living space for someone of my age and ability, and live better on the money I receive.
I think the government need to recognise and be more mindful of people who are really struggling to find employment and improve their lives. It’s not a one-size-fits-all approach that’s needed. Everyone has different circumstances. There would be fewer people in debt and the economy would be better.
Places like Peabody are essential to give information and advice for people to live.
The foodbank saved my life.