Why does money matter?
At CCHA, we know that financial stability is important. Money and mental health are often connected. Sometimes, financial problems have negative consequences on wellbeing. As a result, we want to help you become financially resilient and support you with any financial worries you may have. We want to make sure you have at least one less stress so you can enjoy life and thrive.
How will we do this?
We have created a brand new team for you; the Money Solutions Team. We will provide a bespoke service to you, our tenants. From the start, we will work with you to identify your financial needs and prevent any future financial difficulties that might arise. We can help you pay your rent, finding the most suitable and sustainable way. We will provide specialist advice, guidance, and support for you to maintain financial resilience and support you with your tenancy. Our services are tailored to your needs and your priorities.
What will we do?
To achieve this, we will support new tenants from the start. We will help you find the best way to make rent payments, and prevent arrears.
However, we understand that life happens and rent arrears can accumulate. When this happens, we will help you arrange suitable, realistic, and affordable repayment plans.
If you find yourself in financial difficulties, we will make applications for funding and support. We work closely with external agencies to offer you the best solution. For example, Citizens Advice, StepChange, Turn2Us, and Cardiff Council Money Advice Team.
Finally, financial problems often link to other challenging circumstances. Because of this, we will work with your Neighbourhood Managers to find other ways we can support you going forward.
Cost of Living: Money Advice & Support
Prices are rising, and life is becoming more expensive. We’ve collected some money savings tips which will help you make the most of your income.
Energy Bills
- British Gas Energy Trust
Facing bills you can’t afford? The British Gas Energy Trust are an independent charitable trust. They support people and families who are facing financial difficulties and energy debt. - Turn2Us
This national charity works to fight poverty in the UK. Their website includes a benefits calculator and grant search to help you discover what you may be entitled to. - National Energy Action
This charity makes sure that people can afford to heat their homes. They also support with gas and electricity accounts, water rates, energy efficiency, and switching suppliers.
Saving Money
- Money Saving Expert
Martin Lewis remains a firm money favourite with our Money Solutions Team! If you can take the time to read through the website, there’s plenty to be found. You’ll find tips on how to save money, and advice on how to manage the rising living costs. - Money Supermarket
Grab a tea or coffee and take some time to compare your utility providers. You’ll discover if you are really getting the best deal available to you. Answering a few questions could save you some pounds in the long run!
Food Costs
- Olio
OLIO connects people and local businesses so surplus food can be shared, not thrown away. This includes food nearing its sell-by date in local shops, or spare home-grown vegetables. OLIO can also be used for non-food household items too! - Too Good to Go
When cafes or restaurants don’t sell their food items in time, they can often be thrown away. As a result, Too Good to Go lets you buy this food at a discount so it doesn’t go to waste. You won’t know exactly what’s in your order until you pick it up, but it’s all part of the surprise. (Available as an app via Google Play or the App Store.)
If you have any money worries, or would like to talk about your financial options, please contact us. You can get in touch via our website, call us on 029 2046 8490, or email money@ccha.org.uk. Remember to follow us on Instagram to get more smart money tips!