My elderly mother lives alone and can’t afford heating – and there are many more like her

The best of Voices delivered to your inbox every week - from controversial columns to expert analysis Sign up for our free weekly Voices newsletter for expert opinion and columns Sign up to our free weekly Voices newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy After a damp and drizzly start to the year, the weather in the UK has taken a dramatic turn and we’ve firmly entered the first real cold snap of 2025 – which not only prompts concern for our own health and safety, but also the wellbeing of our more vulnerable loved ones. Living alone in a privately-rented flat and having had her winter fuel allowance reduced has been a real cause of concern for Mum – and now, more so than ever, it’s starting to weigh heavy on her mind. Living in cold or damp conditions could cause arthritis flare-ups and other physical or mental health issues, so the fact that she’s worried about heating her home due to rising energy costs is incredibly concerning. It is heartbreaking hearing a loved one admit that she’s scared of switching on her heating too often and now takes two hot water bottles and extra blankets to bed in the evenings.