How many more will die because they can't afford to put the heating on? The fear that Barbara Bolton's death is only the beginning
News of the death of an elderly woman after she developed hypothermia - having told medics she couldn't afford her heating - has shocked Greater Manchester, laying bare, once again, the grim reality of the cost of living crisis.
An inquest was opened at Rochdale Coroners' Court last week. While it is important not to pre-empt the conclusions of the coroner overseeing the proceedings, the early details to emerge surrounding Ms Bolton's death have caused deep concern. 'The tip of the iceberg... you hear these worries on a daily basis' Ms Bolton's tragic death has prompted an outcry from doctors, paramedics, charity experts and a Greater Manchester MP. They all say they sadly expect people to die because of a lack of heating.
"This is just the tip of the iceberg. This is just the first case we've discovered, how many other cases are there that we don't know about?" "This is also having a knock-on effect on the NHS as people are going into hospital with things that are preventable." Hypothermia is caused by prolonged exposure to cold temperatures and requires immediate medical intervention.
"People also actually don't recognise that they are dying from hypothermia because they might have another condition that's being exacerbated by the cold, so they think that's the problem. Greater Manchester bosses and age charities have issued advice to help people struggling with energy prices in the winter months.
Mayor Andy Burnham’s office warns: "Many people are struggling with their energy bills or getting into energy debt. It's important that you contact your supplier, though this may seem like [something] you don't want to do, they can offer a wide variety of support." "The people who are entitled to pension credits are the most at-risk anyway because the pension they have isn’t at state pension level, these credits top that up so they are on par with state pension," Mr Hazeldine said.
"This is the reality for many people in Bury and across the UK and in 2023 it is deeply unacceptable. I would encourage all local communities to check on your neighbours, particularly those who may be vulnerable. Please do reach out to your local authority if you do require help as there is help out there.
"We are working with consumer groups and industry to assess the best long-term approach to helping vulnerable households from April next year." "We're encouraging people to get a benefits check to make sure they're claiming all they are entitled to. There's a big issue that people are too proud to claim or check what they are allowed to have - we're trying to nail that to the wall," adds Bury’s Age UK chief officer.
You can get a free guide on how to claim pension credits, a confidential benefits check and more help with keeping warm and keeping up with bills through Independent Age's helpline 0800 319 6789.Help and support Samaritans samaritans.org operates a 24-hour service available every day of the year. If you prefer to write down how you’re feeling, or if you’re worried about being overheard on the phone, you can email Samaritans at jo@samaritans.
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