If you are having financial difficulties, you are not alone. The best thing to do is tackle the situation as soon as possible to prevent things getting worse. Staffordshire Housing offers a range of confidential services to residents who are having problems managing their money, and we will do all we can to help.
Benefits checks
We can carry out quick benefits checks to see if you are getting everything you are entitled to, such as tax credits, pension credits, winter fuel payments, job seekers’ allowance and housing benefit. We can also help you fill in the application forms.
Money management advice
We can help you work out your weekly or monthly income and outgoings using our budget calculator. Then we can help you put together a realistic budget that will cover your expenses.
Rent arrears support
If you are behind with your rent, we can work with you to arrange a payment plan so that you can pay off your arrears in instalments. Please contact us as soon as you have trouble paying your rent – the earlier we work out a payment plan, the easier it will be for you to pay off the arrears.
Putting you in touch with other agencies
If your financial difficulties are complicated, we can put you in touch with specialist agencies that will advise you and talk to your creditors on your behalf.
Other agencies who can help
The Debt Support Trust
The Debt Support Trust is a not for profit debt charity with trained, friendly debt advisors ready to advise you on your available debt solutions. Their website has a very helpful ‘money manager’ tool which helps you keep track of your finances and monitor your progress as you pay off your debts. Call them on 0800 025 0226 or visit their website at www.debtsupporttrust.org.uk
The Consumer Credit Counselling Service (CCCS)
CCCS have over 15 years experience in giving confidential, free advice to help people with debt. Visit their website at www.cccs.co.uk
Citizens Advice Bureau
Advice and help with a wide range of money problems. Check your telephone directory or visit www.citizensadvice.org.uk for your local office details.
Community Legal Advice
Call 0845 345 4345 or visit www.communitylegaladvice.org.uk for free, confidential advice. If you ask, the service will call you back to save your phone bill.
National Debtline
Call 0808 808 4000 or visit www.nationaldebtline.co.uk for a free, confidential service.
Price comparison services
Are you getting your essential services for the best possible price? There are several price comparison services who can help you make sure you are not paying more than you need to.
Gas and electricity
There are lots of sites on the internet who can help you online or by phone, such as www.uswitch.com (telephone 0800 404 7961) or www.energyhelpline.com (telephone 0800 074 0745).
Broadband and phone
Broadband and phone prices vary a lot. Visit or phone uswitch (www.uswitch.com or phone 0800 404 7961), or visit www.moneysupermarket.com or www.broadbandgenie.co.uk
