Auriga Services are thrilled to have attended the launch for the ‘One Call That’s All’ pilot, funded by Utilita Giving last week. This exciting initiative is set to support over 6000 individuals out of fuel and food poverty over the next two years. At Auriga Services, we are proud to be the delivery partner for such an important pilot project. 

Our CEO, Jill Wheeler comments “We are delighted to partner with Utilita Giving on this important pilot, supporting 6000 individuals over the next two years. By offering a personalised support service through financial and material aid, dedicated casework, and collaboration with front-line workers in the voluntary sector, we are confident this initiative will provide essential support to those facing fuel and food poverty. We hope that the work of the pilot will leave a lasting impact, alleviating hardship and creating long-term change.” 

The Executive Director of Utilita Giving, Helen Boardman, kicked off the day explaining Utilita Giving’s mission and purpose. Utilita Giving is a registered charity founded with a large donation by Utilita Energy in December 2022.  The purpose of the charity is to provide financial and material aid to people who are suffering hardship or distress caused by fuel and food poverty. They provide aid through giving grants to charities across England, Scotland and Wales as well as raising awareness with the public about the needs of the people it supports. 

During the delivery presentation, Head of Service Delivery, Adam Burgess highlighted how we will support individuals through the pilot “Our ability to take on remote case work gives us a national reach, allowing us to provide tailored support no matter where people are based across Britain. We deliver assistance at entry level-from signposting, to debt and welfare advice, to representing individuals to appeal a case at tribunal. With specialists in debt, welfare benefits and income maximisation, we can quickly access a range of services an individual may needs in just one call and being to offer support.” 

Throughout the event there were also contributions from Bill Bullen, CEO of Utilita Energy and Utiltia Giving trustees Jem Maidment, Frazer Scott, and Mike Smith. As well as talks from Adam Scorer, Chief Executive of National Energy Action (NEA), and Helen Barnard, Director of Policy, Research & Impact at Trussell, who provided valuable insights into the challenges of tackling food and fuel poverty.  

The day was closed with an address from David James, Utilita Giving’s patron, requesting for attendees to continue to raise awareness and support those facing challenging times. David created a pledge with each attendee at the launch event to work together to combat fuel and food poverty. 

As we move forwards, we are confident that the ‘One Call That’s All’ pilot will alleviate hardship as well as creating long term lasting impact and change for the communities we support.