Supporting Tenants through the cost of living crisis

We know that this is a very difficult time for many of us. If you’re struggling with paying your rent or other bills, we would always encourage you to get in touch with us as soon as possible, as there are lots of ways in which we may be able to help. SBHA’s Financial Inclusion team offers a range of support, to help you identify and apply for benefits, manage your household budget and advise you on dealing with debt and arrears.

If you need help, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. Call 01750 724444, or email enquiries@sbha.org.uk, and ask for an appointment.

How we are helping Tenants

• 1,964 Tenants supported through Warm and Well since 2015/16.
• More than 800 Tenants supported each year to maximise their household income.
• 400 Tenants have received fuel vouchers since December 2021.
• More than £6,000 paid to Tenants through the SBHA Tenant Hardship Fund – providing emergency payments of £40 to Tenants in extreme need to buy food and top up their meter.

Meet the Team

Debbie Mzee is our Welfare Benefits Officer. She can help you with identifying any Benefits you may be entitled to, and can also help you to apply. She can also help if you need to ask for a Benefits decision to be looked at again.

Debbie says: “Each year, millions of pounds worth of Benefits go unclaimed. Many applications can only be completed online, and we understand that some people struggle with that, but don’t let it put you off – we can help! Remember as well that your entitlement could change if your circumstances do – for example, if you retire.”

Barry Wood is SBHA’s Financial Inclusion Officer. He works with Tenants to help them manage their budgets, finding ways for them to cut back and make their money go further.

Barry says: “Please do not suffer in silence. Everybody at some point in their lives has money worries and if you are not used to dealing with these, or have lost your way and don’t know what to do then please get in touch to see how I can help. There is no judgment – just help with possible solutions to take the pressure off your shoulders in a time where everyone is affected.”

Matt Rorison is our Warm and Well Co-ordinator. We’re all aware of rising energy prices, and Matt has never been busier in his role of helping people to heat their homes more affordably.

Matt says: “The energy-saving tips on page 3 add up to make a difference. Another good tip is ‘heat the human, not the home’ – if you’re worried about having the heating on too much, focus on keeping yourself warm with layers and hot water bottles. If you have a pre-payment meter and have been or are close to being cut off, contact us – we can supply top-up vouchers. We also have access to funds to support those with solid fuel or oil-filled heating systems.”