Support for tenants during the cost of living crisis

The cost of living crisis is affecting many people who are struggling to pay their bills. We are working with our partners to help our tenants secure extra funding and support, where possible.

Our dedicated ‘Extra help with living costs website page has details of funding and workshops which may help.

We have included a few below:

Tenant Support & Wellbeing Service

If you are facing money worries or you are struggling with your mental health, you can find further support on debt advice as well as mental health issues via our Tenant Support & Wellbeing Service (TSWS). It offers free confidential advice 24/7.

To access the service, call 0330 094 5593 or visit www.tsws-access.co.uk, where you will need to log in with the below details:

Username: saffronhousingtrust

Password: tenantsupport

Our TSWS are now offering a really great free app to help with your mental health – MyMindPal.

• Tenancy Sustainment Fund – created by us, to offer financial help to tenants who get little or no Housing Benefit/Universal Credit Housing Element towards their rent.

• Government Cost of Living Payments - the government are providing a Cost of Living Payment between spring 2023 and spring 2024. These payments are: o up to £900 for people on an eligible low income benefit o £300 for pensioner households o £150 for people on an eligible disability benefit

The Mental Fitness App gives you access to simple exercises, tools, and techniques to help you reduce stress levels and enjoy life more. The benefits of the app include:

• Cope with life’s daily stress – by managing negative thoughts and reducing body tension

• Relax more often – with calming techniques for your mind and body

• Boost your positive thoughts – by creating a range of helpful thinking styles

• Enjoy the present moment – with easy to follow mindfulness practices

• Norfolk/Suffolk Assistance Scheme - is available to help those facing hardship during the cost of living crisis.

• Your Own Place Cost of Living workshops - these workshops are free for anyone to attend and provide advice on things like budgeting, dealing with debt and paying bills.

• Community hot spots - a welcoming space, where you can meet with friends and family while having the option to access services to make this winter more bearable.

• Build habits that are good for you – by following simple tips and challenges to keep you on track

The app is available to download on the Apple App Store and on Google Play. You will then need to add a personal invite code during your registration process.

To find out more, including how to receive your invite code, visit our ‘Tenant Support & Wellbeing Service’ website page.

If you are struggling, we might be able to help in another way. Please contact your Neighbourhood Officer or Wellbeing Co-ordinator or if you have any concerns about paying your rent, please contact your Income Officer.

They can be contacted by calling 01508 532000 or emailing info@saffronhousing. co.uk.