How our Money Advice Team changed Edward’s life
How our Money Advice Team changed Edward’s life
Edward says his life feels more stable and positive after getting support from our Money Advice Service. The help he received helped ease financial pressures and reduced the stress he was feeling about rent arrears and debt.
Before getting support, Edward was struggling financially and feeling overwhelmed. Worries about rent and outstanding debts were affecting his wellbeing and causing anxiety about the possibility of losing his home.
“I was under a lot of stress and constantly worrying about my rent and being in debt. The support from the Money Advice Service has made me better off financially… I can now relax a bit regarding my rent and taken the stress away about being in debt.”
By working closely with the Money Advice Team, and with good communication between Settle’s Money Advice Partner and the resident’s rent officer, a plan was put in place to help Edward get back on track financially. With support, he was able to apply for additional financial support, meaning he could then begin addressing rent arrears in a way that felt manageable.
Edward explained:
“The most positive change was being able to set up a direct debit for my rent arrears with the extra money I received through Universal Credit. I also got some help towards my arrears from the Discretionary Housing Fund, which made a massive difference. I’ve now set up a direct debit to cover the shortfall on my rent, and that’s given me peace of mind.”
Since receiving support, Edward says they feel much more relaxed and happier overall.
I’m not as stressed anymore. Knowing that my rent officer and the Money Advice Team were working together meant I could finally breathe and stop worrying about losing my home.
Edward also praised the personal nature of the service and the regular updates they received throughout.
“A very personal service…I was kept up to date with the progress…and checked on regularly. Nothing was ever too much trouble to find out or do.”
Looking back, he said they wished he had known about the service sooner, especially when their health meant they were no longer able to work.
“I wish I’d known earlier that the service could help me access the benefits I was entitled to. I also didn’t realise they could signpost you to other organisations if can’t deal with everything.”
His message to anyone who is unsure about asking for help is simple and reassuring, “I would say ask for help if you’re struggling. The help is there, and it’s easy to access.”