Helping Hands

In Talk Money Week 2020 we launched our Helping Hands campaign, encouraging you to speak to your local manager about any questions or concerns you may have with your account.

Since then we’ve launched our Tenancy Gurus within the organisation who are experts on providing advice and support to colleagues around benefits and arrears. This means your Scheme Managers are supported to help you with any questions on rents, finances or benefits that you may have. We really encourage you to have these conversations if there is anything on your mind – managers are happy to help!

Helping Hands Fund

We know that sometimes, unexpected things can happen, which can put pressure on your finances. To help support you with such situations, in 2022 we have launched our Helping Hands Fund, offering a one off grant of £250 for emergencies or unexpected bills.

Some of the things the fund can be used for include utility debts, white goods, essential furniture (in some cases), food vouchers, funeral expenses and travel costs to get to essential appointments.

The Helping Hands Fund is not intended to be used for rent payments, service charge payments or to pay other personal debts such as credit card or loan payments. If you need support with any of these things, please speak to your Scheme Manager so they can help you see what other support is available.

Applications for a £250 grant from the Helping Hands Fund will be assessed by Housing 21’s Business Improvement Team. We may ask for additional information such as copies of bills and bank statements if required.   

The Team will then purchase any agreed goods, services or vouchers directly.

How to apply for a £250 grant from the Helping Hands Fund

To apply for a grant, please speak to your Scheme Manager who will guide you through a simple application form. Your Scheme Manager is happy to help!

More useful information about Helping Hands

Did you know Scheme Managers can set up payment plans and Direct Debits and offer support with claiming benefits? Watch our video to find out more on how your local manager can help you.

Take a look at our case studies showing how local managers have helped other residents:

• How talking with your local manager can pay off – read how a resident managed to get £24,000 in backdated benefits
• Collaborative working results in backdated benefits for resident – our managers will seek support to ensure you receive the benefits you are entitled to
• A conversation with local manager makes the world of difference for resident – your local manager is there to offer a non-judgemental ear – do talk to them if you are struggling with your finances

There are also lots of resources available online to help you:

• The Money Advice Service.org.uk | 0800 138 7777
  For a range of money guides, tools and calculators to improve personal finances
• Pension Wise.gov.uk | 0800 138 3944
  Guidance for people aged over 50 with a workplace or personal pension
• The Pensions Advisory Service.org.uk / 0800 011 3797
  Guidance for everyone on workplace and personal pensions
• Age UK: https://www.ageuk.org.uk/ |  Age UK Advice Line: 0800 678 1602
  Free to call 8am – 7pm 365 days a year
  Age UK's advice line is a free, confidential national phone service for older people, their families, friends, carers and professionals. They provide information that is reliable and up to date and can help you to access the advice you need
• Independent Age: https://www.independentage.org/ | Helpline 0800 319 6789
  Independent Age can provide you and your family with clear, free and impartial advice on important issues such as care and support, money and benefits and health and mobility

Benefits calculators

• Turn 2 Us - Check which means-tested benefits you may be entitled to, including tax credits

• Pension credit calculator - Find out if you’re eligible for Pension Credit and how much you could get