A fifth of prepayment meter customers are struggling to receive their energy vouchers, with some missing two or even three months, as the region suffers from bitter cold weather.
Last month, Vivian Patterson, from Newbiggin-by-the-Sea, told how her family was left out in the cold after waiting more than a month to receive their first £66 energy rebate payment, and actually received the second month's payment before the first one arrived. Ms Patterson, who is physically and mentally disabled, told how she broke down in tears after calling EDF daily after October 14, the latest date she says she was told she could expect the voucher in a flyer from EDF.
"We are on a really low income and have no wages coming in," said Vivian, 52. "I am disabled and still awaiting my correct PIP award and my partner had no choice but give up work to care for me. we have two teenage sons so we need every single penny and while this £66 isn't a vast amount, it's a lot to us. I felt as if I was constantly being fobbed off and it has really affected my mental health, which is the last thing we need." EDF apologised for the inconvenience and frustration, saying the vouchers had been reissued along with some compensation for the delay.
