Our residents are facing unprecedented cost of living challenges. We're currently supporting our residents at this time, and introducing a number of additional measures.
We already have programmes in place to ensure that those residents that are experiencing significant challenges are identified and supported. For both new and established residents whose circumstances may change during their tenancy we offer:
- Advice and support to ensure benefits and income maximisation, including provision of food and fuel vouchers to provide immediate support.
- An employment service that assists residents in accessing new or better paid employment, through building skills and signposting to training through social value or partner agencies.
- Partnerships and referrals in place with appropriate organisations, for example with the mental health charity, Mind. More recently we have partnered with the charity Green Doctor to support residents with the increasing energy costs. Staff from the charity will be visiting some of our older person schemes to advise in the months ahead.
- Support via Abacus, our furniture scheme based in Sevenoaks. Abacus recycles unwanted, pre-used furniture and household items, preventing them from going into landfill and selling them on at low cost to families and people in need.
- 75% of our current portfolio already meets the Government standards of EPC band C. Our plans to meet the net zero carbon challenge are taking a ‘fabric first’ approach to ensure all our homes have good roof insulation, energy efficient windows and doors. We have taken the decision to prioritise investment in our homes to benefit households most at risk from fuel poverty.
We are committed to supporting our residents to help them through the current economic challenges and are actively working in partnership across all areas, to maximise the network of resources available to our residents and the wider community.
We'll soon be launching our cost-of-living campaign, 'Help for you - there's no bad time to ask for good advice'. This will provide residents with practical financial support, advice and signposting.
To find out more about the support available, visit our rent and money page.