Ally, hopefully you can get a meter from John, if not, you obviously have internet access try hunting around for someone that sells meters and has their contact details listed. If you phone them you might find that they could take you Mum's card details over the phone if she is happy doing that or they might be willing for you to send a cheque out, if you haven't got a cheque book you bank can write one for you. It might also be a way of getting strips once you have a meter.
With any luck you will be like I am and having cut out all the chocolate, crisps, cakes etc from the shop I have notice the food bill drop a few pounds a week.