A FAMILY being chased by Scottish Power over a £15,000 bill despite not having an account with the company has had it cancelled.
The power giant acted immediately after The Wokingham Paper told them about the three-year nightmare dispute.
However, Sarah Barnard – who has had debt collectors at the family home in Hurst – demanded an apology and an official letter from Scottish Power confirming the case was closed.
Speaking exclusively to The Wokingham Paper, she said: “I would like to thank you for taking up my case.
“The day after you contacted Scottish Power, they had a representative come to my house to confirm what I have been telling them for three years, namely that we do not have an account with them.
“We were at the end of our tether. We have received countless letters and phone calls and early morning visits from debt collectors demanding payment. I really hope this matter is at an end although I won’t believe it until I get it in writing.”
The problem began in 2006 when the family had building work done including an overhaul of the electricity system and wiring. Sarah’s son is severely disabled and is reliant on electricity for his feeding, hoisting, communication and powerchair.
She said she approached Scottish Power about possibly supplying power but opted for another company.
“Despite our insistence including photographic evidence, they would not accept that we did not have an account with them. The bill kept increasing and they and they kept pestering us for payment,” added Sarah.
“I am thankful The Wokingham Paper took up my case. I would encourage anyone to contact their local paper if they have a problem like this.”
Sarah also praised her local councillor, Wayne Smith and Theresa May’s office who also contacted Scottish Power.
“Wayne has been very helpful. As soon as I told him what had been going on, he got in touch with Theresa May’s people and that really helped.”
Cllr Smith said he was delighted the power company had finally listened to Sarah’s plight and had stopped all further action.
“I am delighted to hear Scottish Power has finally taken action to resolve this very difficult situation.
“Once I discovered Sarah’s problem, I contacted Theresa May’s office and they immediately took up the matter with Scottish Power. I hope this issue reaches a speedy and satisfactory conclusion.”
Sarah’s dispute has now been sent to the Ombudsman and a decision is expected within the next month. However, Scottish Power confirmed this week it has cancelled Sarah’s £15,000 bill as well as any further action by debt collectors.
A spokesman said: “We sincerely apologise for any upset and inconvenience this matter has caused. The case is with the Ombudsman and once the case has been fully reviewed by the Ombudsman they will present all parties with their findings and proposed resolution.
“We have assured Miss Barnard that we have reversed all bills associated to her address, we have applied locks to the billing accounts in question to cease further unwanted debt follow up.”
