Money matters to PHA residents

The team of two has a constant stream of enquiries from PHA residents regarding benefit entitlements and money management issues. Many of their cases are as a result of referrals from their income recovery officer colleagues who have noticed a pattern of rent arrears, others are because a housing officer has identified them as being vulnerable and in need of financial guidance.

As well as providing general advice about banking, avoiding doorstep lenders and signposting to various white goods and furniture charities, the team has been particularly successful in boosting household incomes. Last year, they generated an incredible £132,077 in backdated payments and £240,264 in extra annual income for 146 residents.

Residents from all walks of life and of all ages have received valuable advice from the team including:

• An elderly resident who had assumed she was not entitled to any benefits of any type because she had not worked and had been supported by her husband had run out of the savings she had been living off. With PHA’s assistance, the resident received a massive £32,000 in backdated State Pension.
• A young single mum who received £1028 backdated Housing Benefit which cleared her rent arrears as well as an annual entitlement to £3510.
• A mother who cares for her 40 year old disabled son had been washing laundry by hand all of her life, including daily bedding changes. PHA has organised a life-changing washing machine for her via a Community Care Grant.The son has also received £757 in backdated Disabled Living Allowance as well as an annual entitlement to £3580.

Devon & Cornwall Housing have recently set up a Welfare Reform Group to look at other ways to help residents manage their money whilst the benefits system changes occur. There is also an up-to-date ‘money matters’ section on the DCH and PHA websites with advice on issues ranging from managing money, dealing with debt, using a credit union and saving energy.