Background:
Rose (not her real name) lives in a rented property in Fleetwood and was referred to Greener Homes via Cosy Homes Lancashire after initially contacting Citizens Advice. She manages multiple long-term health conditions, including autoimmune disorders, which are particularly aggravated by extreme temperatures. Her situation highlights the challenges faced by vulnerable tenants in an ageing housing stock.
Housing Conditions and Challenges:
Rose’s home is notably cold. Despite recently having her window seals replaced, a surveyor has since confirmed that the 25-year-old windows need full replacement. The kitchen refurbishment she recently received had been overdue for more than a decade, demonstrating delays in essential property maintenance by the landlord.
Energy Usage and Resident Actions:
Rose already practices numerous energy-saving techniques. She washes clothes at 30°C, avoids using the tumble dryer when possible, and batch cooks meals to retain and reuse oven heat during winter. Her home is carpeted in the living room, with lino elsewhere. Georgianna from the Greener Homes team commended Rose’s efforts and provided further tips, such as prepping tumble dryer loads to reduce drying time and optimising appliance use.
Support and Advice Provided by Greener Homes:
Greener Homes took a multi-pronged approach to support Rose, recognising both her personal vulnerability and the limitations of her rented property. The following steps were taken:
- Referral to LEAP (Local Energy Advice Partnership) for further energy-saving help, including potential small home improvements.
- Discussion of the Electricity North West Extra Care Register, as Rose may need additional support in a power cut.
- Advice on the Housing Ombudsman, empowering Rose to escalate ongoing landlord issues regarding the state of her windows and delays in repairs.
- Suggested a free home safety check by the local fire service, particularly to assess a potentially damaged electric blanket in use.
“I already do everything I can to save energy, but the house is still freezing.”
“I can’t afford to keep chasing my landlord, but I don’t know what else to do.”
Impact and Next Steps:
Greener Homes will continue to follow up with Rose to ensure she receives the LEAP support and has the contact details to escalate her concerns to the Housing Ombudsman. A summary email has been sent with all relevant resources and next steps. Rose’s case exemplifies how proactive tenants with significant health needs can still face disproportionate housing hardship — and how Greener Homes helps bridge the gap with practical, person-centred support.