A project helping young people avoid losing their homes has delivered amazing results, saving Riverside almost £350,000 in tenancy turnover costs.

In 2015/16, the Intensive Intervention team engaged with 147 people aged between 16 and 30 and referred many to money advice, affordable warmth and employment and training services as well as to external support services like mental health agencies. They have also reduced rent arrears by £31,857.70 overall. 

Single mum Melissa had rent arrears of nearly £2,500 and was at risk of losing her home. She said she had been suffering with depression following a bereavement and money worries had added to her stress. 

One of our Intensive Support Officers helped her complete a backdated discretionary housing payment application as she was subject to an underoccupation charge. She was awarded enough money to clear her rent arrears. They then worked together on a budget plan which showed Melissa how to prioritise her outgoings.

If you would like to talk to the team in confidence call us on Tel: 0345 111 0000.