Rosemary worked in print-related roles twice in her career, spending eight years at an advertising agency that covered printing stationery; and then temp work at another printing company.
She was signposted to the Printing Charity by energy company nPower’s now finished ‘Health Through Warmth’ scheme in 2014, when she was in a very difficult situation.
Here, Rosemary tells her own story, in her own words.
A desperate situation
“My boiler had stopped working after several engineers had worked on it, but considered it unrepairable at the time. ‘Condemned’ was the word they used.
“I was out of work and couldn’t afford to replace it and couldn’t see any way of getting a replacement. I had no heating or hot water for 22 months. Although I had a gas fire at the time, that too stopped working and then my washing machine broke down. I just didn’t know which way to turn. Already suffering with depression and arthritis, things seemed so desperate for me. Everything was falling apart and I couldn’t see a way of solving it.”
A guardian angel
“I made contact with the Printing Charity through Health Through Warmth, and received a call from the charity. We talked through the problems I was having and the charity said they would provide me with financial assistance as a result. This was like a very bright light had beamed down on me. I telephoned my Mum and was in tears of joy. Talk about having a guardian angel answering your prayers.
“In addition to the financial support, I was asked if I needed any further assistance so I mentioned my washing machine was also broken, and the PC bought me a new one. Unbelievable. I will never be able to thank the charity, particularly the welfare team, enough, for how they have helped me, and continue to do so.
“Of course, in real life, things still can break down and stop working, but I have had the financial help from the charity to relieve the stress of struggling to pay for repairs or replacements. With that bit of money in the bank account, if something goes wrong, I can pay for it.”
Strongly recommends asking for help
“I had worked since I was 15 years old and I never imagined I would get into the financial upheaval I was in all those years ago and didn’t know that help was out there. I would strongly recommend asking for help. The staff at the charity are so kind, understanding and non-judgemental. If they can help you, they definitely will. Just be honest with the information you give.”
For Rosemary, starting a conversation provided both practical support and peace of mind. As she says, she strongly recommends asking for help. Please contact our friendly team on 01293 542 820 or e-mail support@theprintingcharity.org.uk. Remember, we’re here for you.