Debt Awareness

Are you having difficulty paying your rent?
Are you worried about money problems?
Have your financial circumstances changed?
Do you need an up to date benefits check?

If you have answered YES to any of the above, then we can hopefully help.  The sooner you tell us there’s a problem, the quicker we can help you sort it out.

 Facing up to debt

We have established a dedicated Debt Prevention and Recovery Team based at South Somerset Homes’ headquarters, Alvington to deal with rent arrears, account enquiries and all other tenancy related charges. Apart from dealing with your general enquiries we now have a ‘Benefits and Welfare Officer’, Judith Walker, who will be able to give you practical advice and assistance in claiming benefits.

Debt prevention is a major part of the work carried out by the Debt Prevention and Recovery Team. We aim to help tenants who are in debt as well as helping tenants avoid getting into debt in the first place, by giving advice and working with other agencies such as Citizens Advice Bureau, Shelter and South Somerset District Council.

Tenants who find themselves with increasing rent arrears normally have other debts. Managing and prioritizing repayment of multiple debts can be very difficult, but burying your head in the sand and hoping the problem will go away is not the answer.  The earlier a debt problem is recognised and tackled the easier it is to resolve.

Failing to correctly claim Housing Benefit can be a reason for finding yourself in debt, resulting in you having to pay arrears which could have been avoided.

Worried about money problems?

We all face financial difficulties at some time in our lives, but its how we manage our money and debts that are important. Firstly, stay calm and seek professional help, consider telling your friends and family, so you can work it out together and reduce any overspending.

How can I pay off my arrears?

Make an agreement with the Debt Prevention and Recovery Team of South Somerset Homes to repay an amount which you can afford and are able to stick to.  Check your benefits entitlement, every little helps.  We may be able to ask for money to be deducted directly from your benefits each week.  Inform both housing Benefit and the Debt Prevention and Recovery Team of any changes to your financial or household circumstances.  Facing up to debt is not easy but if you need assistance in claiming benefits or wanting advice about your rent arrears and other housing debts then contact the Debt Prevention and Recovery Team.

Useful Link

Financial Services Authority (FSA) - Debt Awareness Test

http://www.moneymadeclear.fsa.gov.uk/debt_test