Financial Hardship
What is the Hardship Fund?
The Hardship Fund is a special pot of money we set aside to help our tenants when they are going through a very difficult financial time. Its main goal is to make sure you have the essential things you need to live safely and keep your home.
What can the money be used for?
You can apply for help from the fund to cover essential costs when there is no other way to pay for them. This includes:
- Help with money you owe us: Support if you have severe debt strictly related to your rent or services with Ability.
- Moving to a smaller home: Help with costs if you need to downsize to a cheaper property because you can no longer afford your current rent.
- Essential items: Emergency help to pay for things like gas and electricity top-ups, or essential household items like a cooker, fridge, or washing machine if yours stops working.
Who can get help?
To get help from the fund, you must meet a few simple rules:
- You must show that you do not have enough personal savings or income to pay for the item yourself.
- You must show that you have already tried to look for other grants or charities first (your Housing Support Officer can help you check this).
- You must be working positively with us to keep up with your rent or a repayment plan.
- You can only receive one successful payment from the fund each financial year.
How do I apply?
If you need help, please speak directly to your Housing Support Officer (HSO). They will help you fill out a financial hardship application form.
Two of our Senior Managers will look at your request, and we will aim to give you an answer within 10 working days.
For more information about our Financial Hardship Support offer, please see our policy below.