Carol’s story 

Carol* was 90 years old when her boiler was replaced at her flat in January 2017. She was relieved as it was turning bitterly cold and her old boiler was unreliable. A few days later the new boiler broke leaving Carol in a freezing flat with no heating or hot water. She called the boiler company multiple times but they refused to return her calls, her family lived far away and could not help. 

With increasing poor health and daily hospital appointments to attend, Carol did not know where to turn. Then, a doctor recommended she contact Wimbledon Guild. We talked through her situation, provided a portable heater and contacted the boiler company ensuring they reinstated her heating. 

Carol said: “I ended up without heating for a month. When you have no one to turn to, you realise how alone you are. Wimbledon Guild helped me so much and I cannot thank them enough for their support. The people of Merton are lucky to have such a great organization on their doorstep.” 

Our annual Winter Fuel Appeal gives more fortunate members of the community the opportunity to donate to help those who may be struggling. 

We are asking Merton residents who are in receipt of the state Winter Fuel Payment but who are not facing hardship to consider donating their government allowance to one of the borough’s leading charities. 

Our chief executive, Wendy Pridmore explains: "There is very real hardship all across our borough which we see and try to help each day. There may be people who qualify for the Winter Fuel Payment but may feel more comfortable knowing the money will be used to heat the home of someone less well off. Our charity can help make that happen. Donating the allowance to Wimbledon Guild really does make a life changing difference to people and ensures they are kept warm and comfortable during otherwise difficult winter months."  

(*Name has been changed to protect their privacy. Thank you for your understanding.)