We know the last few years have been really difficult for everyone, and now with the prices increases for energy, fuel and food many of you are facing extremely tough times financially.  

To support you through these difficult times, we have money available to assist in buying essential items, for anyone affected by the cost of living. 

Lauren, Neighbourhood Officer, visited a tenant who was struggling to get a repair issue fixed as English wasn’t his first language. 

Lauren went to the tenant’s home with an interpreter, to fully understand the concerns with his repair so this could be raised and fixed. She said: 

“We visited the tenant and noticed a lack of furniture and asked where the tenant slept, and how they cooked as he had no bed, cooker or fridge. He told us that he bought takeaway food and slept on a sofa as he could not afford more as his energy bill was very high and there was no money left over.” 

Lauren signposted the tenant to Salford Assist and helped him to make an application for white goods and a bed, as well as providing him with a Mustard Tree voucher so he could access low cost furniture. 

She also provided a food voucher for £150 using Live Well funding that had a 3-month time limit on it so that the tenant could shop little and often, as due to having nowhere to store food he wasn’t able to do a “big shop”.  

Lauren also referred the tenant to our Tenancy Sustainment Team (TSS) for some more intensive support, that included: 

• Reviewing the Government benefits the tenant was receiving so he could ensure he received all the benefits he was entitled to  
• Looking at ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) courses to help with English skills that could support him with finding training or employment opportunities and improve his communication with others 
• A dedicated TSS worker who is in the process of supporting him to change energy supplier and arranging a pre-payment method to help him budget better. 

“The tenant has been really grateful for the support and feels like he is moving forward and setting up his life for the better.” 

If you are struggling financially, you can apply for money for essential items through Live Well. You can apply online by clicking here.

We also have free wellbeing counselling sessions available if you are struggling mentally too. You can apply online by clicking here.

We know how difficult it is for everyone and we’re here to support you the best we can. Please do not struggle alone. We can support you with everything from contacting utility suppliers and applying for benefits, to advice on budgeting and managing any rent arrears or other debts. If you would like support, you can complete an online form by clicking here, visit our offices, book an appointment or call us on 0300 123 55 22.