“I can finally breathe again” thanks to Money Matters support

A woman who feared she would struggle to pay her bills and keep her house warm during the colder months after losing her husband says the support she received from her housing association has “changed everything”.

After her husband, Paddy, passed away in 2019, Penny McDowell was left trying to navigate household bills and finances on her own for the first time, all while dealing with her grief.

During their 30 years together, Paddy had always managed their household finances, and despite working 30 hours a week, Penny was increasingly anxious about making ends meet.

It was a text message promoting a Severn Trent Water and Housing Plus Group’s (HPG) drop-in event in Dawley that prompted Penny to find out about the possible support available to her.

At the event, Penny was introduced to HPG’s Money Matters team and advised by her Housing Officer, Debbie to look into whether she would be eligible for Universal Credit. Initially, Penny didn’t think she would be, as she assumed it was only available to people out of work.

However, during conversations with advisors, she discovered that, in fact, she was eligible. And with support to complete the application process and guidance around budgeting and financial wellbeing, she successfully secured the additional income she was entitled to, which she says has made “an enormous difference” to her day-to-day life.

Through HPG’s ongoing partnership with Cadent Foundation, Penny was also given personalised support to help her manage her energy costs, and provided with a warmth support pack, which comprised items including an electric blanket, hot water bottle and dehumidifier.

Penny said: “After losing Paddy, everything felt so hard. It was the most difficult time of my life. Not only was I grieving him, but I was so worried about everything else. He had always dealt with our bills and finances, so suddenly having everything to manage on my own was really frightening.

“The winters were particularly difficult as I didn’t want to put the heating on because of the cost. I’ve always helped with picking up my grandkids from school, so would save putting the heating on until the days when I had the children.”

Penny said being put in touch with the Money Matters team was a turning point for her.

“When Universal Credit was first mentioned to me, I was dismissive as I didn’t think I’d qualify for it because of my job.

“But I was told that wasn’t the case and was talked through everything clearly and was helped to apply for it. Dan and the rest of the Money Matters team have been so kind and patient throughout. Their support, as well as Debbie’s, has changed everything for me.”

She said that the top-up of her income has made a positive impact to her mental health and in turn, her confidence. As a result, she has reconnected with her local community in Dawley and now rings the bells at Holy Trinity Church every week.

Penny said: “I finally feel like I can breathe again. I no longer feel anxious all the time and that’s done wonders for my mental health.”

Penny is now urging others who are struggling financially to not suffer in silence and reach out for support.

Dan Bebbington, Housing Plus Group’s debt and energy manager, said: “Many people don’t realise that they may be entitled to financial support while working, especially after a major life change such as bereavement.

“Our Money Matters team are here to help our customers understand what support may be available to them, and to provide some reassurance during, what can often be, difficult circumstances.

“We’re delighted that Penny feels able to enjoy life again because of feeling more financially secure.

“Penny’s story also demonstrates the impact of our strong partnerships with the Cadent Foundation and Severn Trent Water. This joined-up approach means that our customers receive support at every stage.”

8th June 2026