When Laura* first started working with our tenancy support team, she was struggling to manage her debt. She was also living with a long-term health condition which made it difficult for her to work, and her circumstances were taking a toll on her mental health. She’d been coping by drinking, and couldn’t see a clear way out.

Our tenancy support worker Sam started out by helping Laura to collate the proof of her outstanding debts, working with Citizens Advice to write off over £18,000 of debt. She also supported Laura to fill out her application for Personal Independent Payment (PIP), and after a successful medical assessment she was awarded enhanced payments which added up to an additional £547 a month – including a large backdate.

Since working with Sam, Laura’s life has changed. She hasn’t had a recent alcoholic drink and she’s working with Derbyshire Recovery Partnership to stay on track. Sam referred her for counselling for ongoing anxiety and depression, and a psychiatrist is regularly visiting her.

Sam’s seen a real change in Laura since the start of the tenancy support process, and she says it’s lovely to see: Sam said: “She looks and sounds so much brighter and positive… the house is clean and tidy, she’s managed to visit relatives for a few nights – it’s amazing to see her grow. Holistically, this is one of my best outcomes since working at Futures. Days like today make me realise why I do my job, and they make it all worthwhile.”

If you’re struggling with your finances, or need support to manage your tenancy, you don’t have to struggle alone. You can request a referral to our tenancy support team by filling in our customer enquiries form or speaking to the team on 0300 456 2531.

*Name has been changed to protect identity.