A former actor who switched roles to provide energy efficiency advice and support to people living in vulnerable situations has shared their advice on how to stay warm this winter in London.

Chris Born, 31, is a Community Disability Energy Advice (CDEA) Advisor with Scope, in partnership with gas distribution network Cadent, supporting local residents across London. Chris runs free energy efficiency advice sessions across the region, including in Essex, Barnet, Waltham Forest and Hackney.

Here, Chris and the wider team provide immediate and long-term support to people struggling with their energy.

Chris said: “My favourite thing about the role is probably the part that allows me to act as a community connector. Being able to suggest or refer our community members to local services or support organisations at a moment’s notice, and seeing their faces light up, is always a thrill.”

placeholder image — Chris Born, CDEA with Scope

Helping local residents

One of the reasons Chris enjoys his role as a CDEA Advisor is the impact it makes on peoples’ lives: “We’ve supported huge numbers of people in need over the winter, and we’ve tried to approach every single one of them with kindness and humanity. Balancing that with an ever-increasing demand on the service has been challenging but extremely rewarding! The privilege of hearing back from community members certainly makes this pressure worth it, especially the chance to witness their stories since working with us.

Chris recalls the impact his support had on one particular young mother: “Hearing about the evolving situation of people like her has been a highlight. She first attended a drop-in session for fuel support but through slow conversation, often using a translation app, and contact with Thames Water we discovered that she was being charged for a leak that was her landlord’s responsibility. Five months later and we have been able to bring down her bills and engage Citizens Advice for support with her case.

“This blend of emotional and practical support is above all what drives me in this role, and I hope I can continue supporting people with compassion and patience.”

Chris is one of the many CDEA Advisors at Scope, offering face to face advice and support to the disabled community. To find the next event, visit the Scope website.