Housing association bpha has helped residents access almost £550,000 extra money in the last three years thanks to a service that offers advice about benefit rights and managing money more effectively.
The confidential, free service, which is offered through bpha’s Money Advice team, identifies benefits residents may be able to claim, helps them to prioritise the repayment of debts, and works with debtors to create repayment plans that meet the needs of all involved.
David Parsons, Head of Housing Management at bpha, said that for some residents access to this advice has helped them maintain rent payments and, in some cases, avoid the risks associated with borrowing money from door-step lenders.
“For example, since the Global Financial Crisis hit in 2008, the Money Advice team has helped bpha residents access more than £260,000 in housing benefit payments, easing the burden many households face,” said Mr Parsons.
Mr Parsons said that while the bpha Money Advice team works closely with organisations such as the Citizens Advice Bureau to make sure people can access the help they need, he expected more people to approach the bpha team as government cuts continue.
“With the recent good news that Citizens Advice Bureaus across the country will continue to receive government funding for another year, other Government cuts are likely to place these resources under pressure, with more people seeking money and benefits advice.
“In many cases, our highly qualified money advisors will be able to fill that gap and continue to provide residents with much needed money advice and guidance,” Mr Parsons said.
“A lot of the people we work with have said that trying to identify benefits and prioritising debt is confusing and stressful, so we work closely with them to make sure the process is easier.”
The Government’s proposed changes to the benefits system will also have a financial impact on many people on low incomes, with bpha residents naturally affected.
Mr Parsons said that the National Housing Federation has claimed that more than 130,000 low income households will suffer an average annual cut of £475 from their housing benefit payments if they are out of work for more than a year.
“If these Government cuts go through, our Money Advice service will prove an even more valuable resource for our residents,” he said.
“While the reforms might affect housing benefits, there could be other areas where residents will be able to claim, so we’re encouraging all of our residents to approach us if they have any concerns.”
“In the last few years our team has dealt with more than 1,800 different enquiries and helped many people get back on their feet financially.”
“I would strongly encourage any of our residents who are currently facing financial difficulties to contact us if they need help.”
Residents can contact the Money Advice team at bpha on 01234 221 287 or at moneyadviceteam@bpha.org.uk