Elizabeth, Stoke-on-Trent17 January 2011
My partner and I lived in our home as undergraduate students for two years and we live in the same house as postgraduates.
We can't afford to keep the heating for more than two hours per day - not long enough to keep us warm.
We often have to wear numerous layers and use blankets when studying. My hands often go numb when I am making notes or reading.
Our home does not have adequate insulation, and has problems with damp throughout.
Often we wake in the morning and can see our own breath. We also have issues with ice on the inside of our double glazed windows.
As we are students, money is a huge issue. I work part-time to supplement our bursary and loans.
During December when it was so cold we were forced to keep the heating on in fear that a pipe would burst. But our home was still freezing and we ended up having to go and stay with my parents at the weekends.
Need some help?
For free advice on paying heating bills and how to save energy, visit Home Heat Helpline or call 0800 336699.
Find out your legal rights as a tenant at Shelter or call 0808 800 4444.
