J and A live, who live in a newly acquired, unfurnished Housing Association property, could not afford their rent so were evicted. Since then they have been homeless for two years, having lived for six months in a tent before being housed in temporary accommodation. They are on a very low income, with no savings, as A is in receipt of basic state pension and J is on Universal Credit. This couple are very grateful for any help towards a cooker, as they only have a microwave to cook with currently.

A was street homeless for a long time before spending eighteen months in hospital due to her mental illness. On her recent discharge she was allocated a social housing property which is unfurnished. A would greatly benefit from a tumble dryer as she cannot access a launderette and has no drying facilities for her large amount of washing and soiled bedding. She has no savings and is on benefits with no family or friends to help her practically or financially, only ongoing support from the mental health team.

J, a single lady who lives alone, is on long-term sick leave due to a mental health crisis and long-term health conditions. She uses the foodbank once a month, and is waiting to hear back from Universal Credit, as her Statutory Sick Pay has stopped. Her oven has broken down and, although .J receives Personal Independence Payments, the money that comes in is not enough to cover all the essentials, let alone when something goes wrong.