For many disabled people, help from Merton Centre has been pivotal

With no end in sight to cost-of-living crisis, Anna Davis talks to those benefiting from key financial advice

- Anna Davi

FOUR years ago Alvarine was fit, healthy and working full time. Now the 48-yearold is in chronic pain, uses a wheelchair and struggles to keep up with her bills.

Merton Centre for Independent Living has been pivotal in helping her cope with the change in her life circumstances, made worse by the rising cost of living.

The charity says that spiralling food prices and energy bills are disproportionately affecting disabled people like Alvarine and estimate that households with one disabled member face additional monthly costs of £975. This is because many disabled people rely on taxis, pre-prepared food and extra heating and clothing to keep warm.

Merton CIL is one of eight charities being funded with a £31,250 grant from the £250,000 pot of funds raised for our Winter Survival Appeal from the Evening Standard Dispossessed Fund, with grants administered by the London Community Foundation. Alvarine told the Standard: