If you know me, you’ll know I don’t usually do this — asking for help feels deeply uncomfortable — but we’ve hit a point where we’re out of options, and I’m hoping that some of the care and kindness we’ve tried to put into the world might find its way back to us now.

As many of you know, Paul was in a horrific head-on car crash in June 2024. His leg was badly injured, and while he can bear weight occasionally, his mobility is severely limited. He relies on a walking stick and still hasn’t been able to see an orthopaedic surgeon to figure out long-term treatment options. On top of that, he’s been dealing with PTSD — and despite it being a year on, he’s still waiting to begin the intensive therapy he desperately needs.

What most people don’t know is that Paul also lost his job late last year. Since then, he’s been doing everything he can to recover and get back into work. But public transport’s a no-go, driving is still off the table for now, and while he’s been applying to remote roles (he’s a talented Analyst Programmer with over a decade of experience in data and IT support), nothing’s landed yet.

Last year, we managed on our combined income — even started planning our wedding for August 2026 — but Paul’s salary made up the bigger portion, and now it’s gone. I’m able to cover food shops and little bits here and there, but rent, bills, and the car? We’re stuck. We’ve already used Paul’s redundancy pay and the savings we had for the wedding, and although we managed to pay everything for May, we’re at a cliff edge now.

We’ve reached out everywhere we can — Universal Credit is in progress, but it looks unlikely we’ll qualify for much, and Jobseeker’s has already run its course. We’ve had £50 in vouchers from my work (grateful for that, truly), and Paul gets a small amount of PIP, but it barely covers the basics. We're reapplying for more support, but it won't come through in time to help us this month.

So… this is where we’re at. I’m here, reluctantly, asking for help. Whether it’s a donation, a share, or pointing us toward remote job opportunities, it would genuinely mean everything to us. Every pound helps keep us afloat — and if you know of any roles where Paul’s skills might be a fit, we’d love to hear about them. (I’m also very happy to send his CV.)

I know it’s not an easy time for anyone, so whatever you’re able to do — even just reading this — thank you. We’re so grateful for any support you can offer. Here’s hoping we’ll look back at this moment one day and be able to pay it forward.

With love and gratitude

Lottie & Paul

~x~

Donations will be used for our main bills which are rent, council tax, car + insurance and utilities.