Ed Slater spends most days sitting in the dark without the heating on. It has terrible effects on his multiple sclerosis, but he's so fearful of his upcoming energy bill, he'd rather take the hit on his health.
The dad-of-three was diagnosed with the debilitating condition in 2008 and relies on the use of a wheelchair. He has always lived his life frugally, but says that since the cost of living has soared his life has become extremely difficult. Ed's story is just a snapshot of what many vulnerable and disabled people across the region are currently enduring.
Like Molly Powner, the 92-year-old grandma who is fearful she won't be able to pay for her gas and electricity bill as it's set to increase to £4,800 a year - something she can scarcely afford with her £186 a week pension. She is already mindful of spending too much on heating her small town house in Hollinwood, Oldham and often spends much of the day in bed, or wearing several layers in an attempt to keep warm.
