United Utilities Support for People Affected by COVID-19
United Utilities are extending support to people affected by COVID-19 who are having trouble paying their water bills. The following information has been provided by United Utilities themselves: New scheme launched for people struggling to pay their water bill due to COVID-19 United Utilities has amended an existing scheme to appeal to more customers who […]
The Return of Universal Credit Conditionality
Back in March 2020, Regulations were made which suspended the requirements Universal Credit and Jobseeker’s Allowance claimants to be available for and look for work. As of 1 July 2020, this suspension has been lifted, meaning that the work search and availability requirements apply again. What is conditionality? When you claim these benefits, you must […]
Helpful Audioguides from USwitch
In these difficult times, it’s important to have the right information about what help and support is available. That’s why USwitch have created various audioguides to explain how the companies that provide services to us are supporting us during the Coronavirus outbreak. The guides can be accessed from these links: Support from your energy suppliers […]
Coping Financially During the Coronavirus Lockdown
The outbreak of coronavirus in the UK has had a widespread impact on people’s finances. Many have seen a reduction in their income, so it is more important than ever to consider ways of saving money. With this in mind, our Money Advice Officer has brought together information and ideas to help you get through […]
The importance of having contents insurance and how to compare prices
Steven Higham, money advice officer at Warrington Housing Association, was shocked to hear how many tenants do not have content insurance to cover their treasured possession. Here he talks about how to get the best deal. “It’s surprising how many of our residents don’t have cover. Do you have home contents insurance? If you don’t, […]
Black Friday Do’s and Don’ts
Picture the scene; It’s black Friday, your eyes are drooping, your stomach is growling, your children are screaming. Slumped at the end of a snaking queue, the tills are a dot at the other end of the shop. Your anxiety levels are climbing faster than your credit card bill. Worst of all, the thing you […]
Universal Credit Sanctions Length Slashed!
The harsh sanctions regime has been a controversial issue over the last few years, with claimants being refused benefits for up to 3 years in extreme cases. New rules in force from 27 November 2019 offer some relief for claimants as the maximum length of a sanction is being reduced down to 6 months and, […]
Universal Credit Christmas Double Wage Payment Tips
Our Money Advice Officer is always on the lookout for solutions to problems caused by the benefits system, and has some hints and tips to share for Universal Credit claimants who lose out if their wages are paid early over Christmas. The Problem: Universal Credit is calculated each month based on income paid in the […]
International Credit Union Day 2019
17 October 2019 is International Credit Union Day, this years’ theme is Local Service: Global Reach. Our Money Advice Officer, Steven, explains what Credit Unions are and how to get involved. Credit Unions are financial co-operatives which provide savings, loans and other services to their members whilst being fully owned and controlled by their members. They are […]
Money Matters – Anonymous Resident
“I was 19, a single mum with a baby, estranged from my parents and my ex-boyfriend threw me out. I didn’t know where to turn. Luckily I managed to get into temporary accommodation with Warrington Council, and was fortunate enough to be offered a permanent home with Warrington Housing Association. When I received the keys […]
