Clive* who progressed from a homeless service into general needs accommodation was greatly assisted by Hightown’s Financial Inclusion team during his move. Due to Clive being a vulnerable resident, he received help with claiming benefits such as housing benefits, council tax support and any additional benefits he was entitled to.
The Financial Inclusion Officer completed a change of circumstance application to transfer Clive’s housing benefit to his new home which successfully backdated to his tenancy start date, in turn clearing his
arrears. Thanks to Hightown’s Financial Inclusion Officer, with both this and a council tax support application being successful and backdated, Clive was able to enjoy his new home and life with his rent and council tax covered in full.
Clive’s source of income was his state pension and he was guided through applying for pension credit which increased his monthly income. Although not everything always runs smoothly and there were several issues with the application, Clive’s Financial Inclusion Officer supported him and worked with the Pension Credit Service to resolve these and Clive was awarded a backdate of over £20,000 with ongoing payments activated. This has helped to turn Clive’s life around and he is now able to start enjoying some security with an additional support referral to Age UK, who help him with daily tasks and regular companionship visits.
Clive’s income has increased considerably since he started receiving
support from the Financial Inclusion team at Hightown. He can now live comfortably and afford to purchase necessary items and can finally plan a trip to reunite with his family. At present, the Financial Inclusion Officer is continuing to support Clive to apply for disability benefits and a free TV licence. Clive wants to thank those at Hightown who have helped him and continue to support him.
*Name has been changed to protect identity.
