Supermarket shopping - when a chore becomes a luxury

Amanda, a single mother from New Milton, was working in hospitality but became unemployed due to the Covid-19 lockdowns.

Amanda said: “Living on Universal Credit just covered bills and luxuries became a distant memory.”

To make ends meet, Amanda had to seek help from food parcels and free share larders which, although helpful, made her feel a bit ashamed.

Amanda talked to her income officer about how she was struggling financially and was referred into the Helping Hand Fund through the Money and Digital team.

The Helping Hand Fund is designed for customers who are struggling due to a change in their circumstances.

Through this she received a £50 Asda voucher to help her buy some groceries.

Amanda said: “These food banks have kept us fed, but the Asda voucher felt like a luxury. Just being able to browse a supermarket and pick food. We felt good. I’d like to say thank you so much.”

You can find out more about the support we’re providing to help our customers with the cost-of-living crisis here.