Our dedicated and passionate employment and money advise team (EMA) increase our customers’ household income by making sure they are receiving all the benefits they are entitled to, helping them gain access to grants or trust funds and through effective debt management.
In 2023/24 the team helped 3,139 customers to achieve money savings totalling a staggering £3,351,884.
The EMA team has a wealth of experience in helping people get their life and finances on track. Not only do they help with money management, but they also provide support with getting into work and accessing training.
Homes Plus’ Keep Well & Warm campaign also signposts to sources of additional support that may help them with rising costs. The dedicated page on our website features a round-up of the help available from the government and other central sources.
Customers can get advice and information on how to save money, keep their homes warm and stay safe – particularly during the winter months.
Our community hubs are also places where customers can speak to our EMA colleagues, ask questions and get help applying for grants and any other benefits that they may be entitled to.
This year our Burton Square Community Hub, in Stafford, was used as a Warm Space for people struggling to heat their homes. It was among a network of community organisations, churches, libraries and businesses who opened their doors as safe and friendly ‘warm spaces’ over the winter.
Les Clarke, Executive director of housing and care, said: “At a time when so many people are worried about the cost-of-living, we want our customers to know that we’re here to help.
“Our employment and money advice team provide free and confidential advice and support to our customers who are struggling to stay on top of their bills and manage their finances.
“They’re a dedicated and passionate team and it’s thanks to their hard work that we were able to help so many more customers who needed our help this year.
“We have faced similar pressures due to rising costs, but we are committed to continuing to build much-needed affordable homes and delivering vital services.
“We will continue to do all that we can to help our customers as the cost-of-living crisis continues to affect us all.”