Gran’s hope for change after readers’ kindness

A woman whose experience of helping her young granddaughter sparked a huge response from Sunday Mail readers has told how she’s been given renewed hope of change.

The gran, named only as Norma, told how she had been driven to the brink of suicide because they had so little. Norma, 58, of Maryhill, Glasgow, said: “What Mr Adamson has experienced when he has been speaking to young people is shocking – but unsurprising to me.

“People wouldn’t believe what goes on. It’s awful. I have key meters for electricity and gas so, if you have no money, you have no heating or lighting. You haven’t enough money for food so have to borrow to eat. You get into arrears and it just breaks you.

“Much of the problem is down to the Government and how they are running the benefits system. Benefits get mixed up and you can be left without enough money or any at all. This can lead to rent arrears – it’s like a domino effect, which can be devastating.

“One thing which has helped is free meals in primary schools. It’s a big thing to know your child is getting a meal.

“I have sisters who help and I really feel for people who have no family back-up.

“People have been unbelievably kind since I shared my story in the Sunday Mail last Christmas.

“But poverty is not just about money – it affects every aspect of your life. It does in your self-esteem and you feel overwhelming shame.

“People need help to get them out of difficulty. What we need is action.”