Did you know that we have a dedicated Tenancy Sustainment Team? They help tenants every day with a wide range of money and benefits issues.
Since April 2019 to March 2020 the team assisted 617 tenants, with a total gain of £513,369.92 in
successful benefit claims for customers!
The team have a thorough knowledge of the benefits system and have assisted tenants with Universal Credit (a new benefit that many tenants are unfamiliar with), Pension Credit, Personal Independence Payment and Attendance Allowance. They are also well versed in EU migrants Right to Reside.
In addition to support with benefits and budgeting, they have provided short term housing support to and have helped tenants apply for furniture assistance from local authorities.
Can they help me?
The team can support you at any point in your tenancy, whether you’ve just moved into your home or you’ve been a tenant for years. If you are struggling to pay your rent or feel you just need a little support to help you with your tenancy you can contact the team any time, You may not know which way to turn but the Tenancy Sustainment team can support you and point you in the right direction.
Claiming benefits and COVID-19
We have all been impacted by the pandemic in one way or another. As furlough comes to an end in October, the scheme is being replaced with a new job support scheme. We have seen a sharp rise in referrals since the spring, with 429 tenants benefiting from our assistance, so if you are struggling with your finances and don’t know what benefits you are entitled to or what the new job retention scheme means for you, then please get in touch to see how we can help.
I’m struggling to pay my rent
We understand that sometimes you might have difficulty paying your rent for different reasons,
however your rent is your main priority and is due on the 1st of every month. If you are unable to pay your rent it’s important that you contact us. The sooner we know, the sooner we can help.
Important note if you are on ‘legacy’ benefits
Before you apply for benefits, it’s always best to get a benefit check. It’s important to remember that if there is a change to your circumstances, for example, if you move house or someone moves in/out of your home, it doesn’t mean you should always apply for Universal Credit.
If you are in receipt of ‘legacy’ benefits, such as Income Support, Employment Support Allowance, Job Seekers Allowance, Child or Working Tax Credit, you should speak to us or contact your local Citizen’s Advice before making any applications for benefits. Once an application for Universal Credit is made your legacy benefits WILL STOP and some of our tenants are now £280 worse off a month. We want to maximise the money you receive so please get in touch if you’d like us to carry out a benefits check for you.
