Trevor was referred to Great Places’ tenancy sustainment service when his neighbourhood services officer identified a change in his mental health and personal circumstances. Trevor’s mental health had declined to a point where he threatened to take his own life, which triggered a referral to the police so they could conduct a welfare check.
Trevor had been a long-term carer for his brother, but after his brother decided he no longer wanted his support Trevor had to update his change in circumstances and apply for different benefits and support, something Trevor struggled to do on his own.
Trevor went to the job centre three times to try and provide the right proof regarding his change in circumstances. He then discovered an alternative payment arrangement had been set up meaning he would only have £20 to live on, which we believe triggered the decline in his mental health and threat of suicide.
Great Places tenancy coach Lindsay worked with the neighbourhood services manager to provide benefit support and an emergency food parcel for Trevor. The two colleagues then provided further advice & guidance to help signpost him to local services such as the crisis team, Foodbank, Samaritans, care network hub and our own internal services around tenancy sustainment and employment & skills.
The tenancy coach also supported Trevor with making a discretionary housing payment application to support with his housing arears. This was successful and his arrears were halved reducing his financial stress.
Trevor was then supported in contacting the Universal Credit debt management team regarding his overpayment debts and his council regarding council tax arrears.
This action successfully reduced his repayments making his finances more manageable.
Trevor has been engaging with Bootstrap a local employment support service in Blackburn, he is enjoying attending their sessions and is open to further support from Great Places Housing Group with regards to employment & skills. We’re unsure where Trevor would be without the service he has gone through.
Trevor now has less financial stress and is feeling more in control meaning he is free to look to the future with hope and motivation.
