Making the most of your money
With the cost of living increase affecting so many lives across the country, many of us will be concerned about finances.
Great Places is here to help support and advise you through our Community Investment Team, if you, or a customer you know, is facing difficulty.
Below is a list of some of the items we are able to help with:
Help with the basics
At the start of the pandemic, we set up our Hardship Fund, managing over 100 applications from customers struggling to get basic essentials such as food.
The Hardship Fund is still available and if you are struggling, we can help you get the things you need.
The Community Investment Team also work with a range of partner organisations across all our regions who operate food banks or food pantries that stock everyday essentials and can refer customers who may benefit from this service if needed, so do get in touch.
Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP)
DHP is designed to provide customers with additional financial help towards their housing costs.
This means it can be paid in addition to any benefits, including any Housing Benefit/Universal Credit that the customer receives.
DHP is given to cover rent and could include someone in a shared ownership property. It can also be given to cover other types of housing costs such as removals. Contact your local council for information on how to apply.
Fuel
With energy costs continuing to rise, Greater Manchester Housing Providers (GMHP) has recently produced a useful Home Energy Efficiency guide. It contains a range of useful energy saving tips, information on Smart Meters and advice on support available for customers who may be struggling with their energy bills.
Furnishing
If you’re struggling to furnish your home with basic essential items, the Community Investment team has a range of partners who can provide furniture at a discounted rate.
Direct Debits
Setting up a Direct Debit to pay your rent means you’ll have peace of mind using the most hassle-free way to pay. You can make payments automatically, so you never forget. Once set up, it runs by itself. We’ll give you advance notice of any changes to your payments. Speak to us at greatplaces.org.uk via Chatabot.
For more information around supporting you with finances, take a look at the Managing your money section of our website, or if you or any customers you know would benefit from our help, then please email community.investment@greatplaces.org.uk