Katie was struggling with money after her splitting from her husband and having to cover the cost of housing alone. Not knowing how to improve her situation, she approached Better Off Finance, and is now on top of her finances.
Katie got in touch with Better Off Finance (BOF) after being referred by the Citizens Advice. A full-time mum-of-four, Katie’s eldest child was awaiting heart surgery to repair a hole in her heart, and her youngest was also being monitored for cardiac difficulties. Katie’s marriage had broken down in 2017, after her husband was unable to cope with their children’s ongoing health problems. While he still maintains a good relationship with the children, Katie was going it alone.
Katie was struggling with money due to the cap imposed on housing benefits, which meant only £24 of her £78-per-week rent was covered – a common issue since the cap was introduced in 2013. Lack of money had caused Katie to fall into debt to cover housing costs, which had mounted up to £2,800. At the time of approaching Citizen’s Advice, her washing machine was leaking, but with no disposable income to replace it, Katie had to make do.
Official data obtained by housing charity Shelter in September 2019 found that around 370,000 low-income households renting privately struggle financially, as housing benefits fall so far behind rental costs due to the benefit cap. The average monthly shortfall now stands at £113, putting many families at risk of poverty and homelessness.
Through Better Off Finance, Katie was assigned a Key Worker, who sat down and helped her work through her financial issues. Her Key Worker identified that Katie wasn’t receiving all of the benefits to which she was entitled, such as Disability Living Allowance for her eldest child. She was also assigned a Discretionary Housing Payment, and received a grant to purchase a new washer-dryer; she has now been referred to the debt advice team, who are helping her work out what debt-repayment options are open to her.
Since accessing support through Better Off Finance, Katie’s situation has improved. Her finances have become more stable, and the new washing machine has lightened her load at home. She said:
“I am feeling more optimistic and confident and know that my situation will continue to improve… The best thing is seeing the same person and knowing you can turn to them whenever issues arise.”
Katie has now begun a Level 2 Mental Health course, and is starting to feel more confident in herself. She said she’s grateful for the support she’s received from Better Off Finance, and to anyone thinking about accessing support, she would definitely recommend it!
About us:
Better Off Finance is offering residents of the Liverpool City Region who are currently unemployed (although don't have to be claiming benefits), a bespoke programme of support.
This support will be provided at a local community venue or at home if a participant prefers.
Each participant will be linked up with their own key worker who will support them to:
Improve their financial capability through 1-2-1 support and group work
• Access employability sessions within the programme
• Access a Level 2 Accredited ‘Money Mentor’ opportunity
• Progress into training and education opportunities
• Prepare and progress into sustainable employment.
Please contact us via our Facebook or Twitter pages to make a referral or for further information.
Better Off Finance is a programme jointly funded by The National Lottery Community Fund and European Social Fund as part of the Building Better Opportunities Initiative
