We’re tackling the taboos and getting the conversation started this Debt Awareness Week – reaching out to our residents with support to help them get back on track if they’re struggling.
We’re proud to join with partners - including the national Step Change debt charity who lead the campaign - to put the spotlight on this important issue. We encourage anyone in debt to take the first step towards taking back control.
Emma Burke, Rents Team Manager, said: “We know it’s really difficult right now with increasing living costs affecting everything from energy bills to the weekly shop.
“But our message is this - if residents are struggling to pay their rent, it’s important they contact us so we can help. Ignoring the problem will only make the situation worse and add to the worry and uncertainty they might be feeling.
“Our friendly, approachable team will listen and can check if someone is receiving the financial support they’re entitled to and can sign-post to money specialists and debt advice too.
“We never judge a person or their situation. We’ve helped hundreds of people to find a way out of debt, even when the circumstances seem hopeless.
“Being in rent debt is serious and can lead to people losing their home, so we want people to know we’re here to help and support them to get back on track.”
Joanne’s story
Joanne* – a single mum-of-two from Manchester - had been issued a possession order due to significant rent arrears. An eviction warrant was being considered, because she had buried her head in the sand rather than face up to the problem.
But when she finally came to her Rent Support Officer for advice, we helped with an application to Manchester City Council for hardship funding, and another to the Winter Support Fund.
She was delighted and relieved when she was awarded financial support that cleared her arrears in full.
“Now I don’t have to worry about losing our home – I’ve been given a fresh start.”
To take the first step towards taking back control of your rent account, contact us today – we’re here and ready to help:
Email contact@irwellvalley.co.uk
Call 0300 561 1111
Message us on social media @IrwellValleyHomes.
*name has been changed.
Help and support
There are lots of other sources of advice and support out there to help you deal with different types of debt.
Step Change Debt Charity has some great resources including:
• Online advice
• Information about debt solutions
• Guides to help with the increasing costs of living
The National Debt Line also offers specialist advice online and over the phone – more information is available here.
To find out about other support in your local area – including information about things like credit unions, Citizen’s Advice and foodbanks, as well as local authority support – visit our ‘In Your Area’ page on our website here.
One of your first steps could be to check you're receiving all of the benefits you are entitled to. Our Benefits Calculator can help you with this and can be accessed here.
Looking after you
We understand being in debt is worrying and stressful. There are lots of organisations who can help support your mental health and wellbeing. Here are a few organisations who can help. Please reach out to them, you are not alone.
Greater Manchester Mind
Hub of Hope
Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust