Working Together to Support Our Community
Tom Hunt, South West Water Debt Advisor, shares how working alongside CHAT is helping local people access support during difficult times.
Working closely with CHAT gives me the opportunity to support people through some of the most difficult periods in their lives. Many of the customers I help may be experiencing financial hardship, family breakdown, addiction, poor mental health or learning difficulties, and I understand how overwhelming it can feel to deal with bills and debt during those times.
My role is to provide a safe, empathetic and non judgemental environment where people feel listened to and supported. By meeting customers face to face, I can remove the stress of multiple phone calls and help guide them through what may seem like complex situations. I’m here to support people through the process and ensure they can access all the help available to them.
At South West Water, we have a range of support tariffs and debt assistance schemes that can significantly reduce costs for vulnerable customers. I have helped people reduce their water bills by as much as 85% and supported customers in resolving thousands of pounds of debt. Often, there is a solution, people just need someone to talk to.
Working in partnership with CHAT is incredibly valuable because we share the same aim of supporting people with compassion, dignity and understanding. CHAT’s close connection to the local community means we can work together to identify people who may otherwise struggle in silence and make sure they receive the practical and emotional support they need.
I genuinely love helping others, and that is what motivates me every day. Seeing the difference that partnership working can make for local people is incredibly rewarding, and I’m proud to work alongside organisations like CHAT to help people feel heard, respected and supported during difficult times.
“Partnership working like this is so important to the support we provide at CHAT. By working closely with organisations such as South West Water, we can help ensure local people receive practical support, advice and understanding at a time when they may be feeling overwhelmed or unsure where to turn.”
Alison Padfield, CEO, CHAT