Trident Group - Cost-of-Living Help and Advice

Cost-of-Living Help and Advice

We know that many will be feeling the impact of the cost of living crisis. Trident Group can help – we have advice, support, and our Beacon of Hope Fund.

Over the last few months, the rise in the cost of living has impacted many people across the country. Residents especially may be feeling the effects of a rise in bills, food prices, and services while some income levels have stagnated, and employment has become more precarious.

Trident Group provide help and advice to help residents impacted by the rising cost of living. Helping customers to stay in their homes and successfully sustain their tenancy is extremely important to Trident Group.

If you fall behind with your rent payments, do not ignore it. We know that it can be a stressful situation but tell us first so that we can support and advise you. Contact your Income Management Officer immediately, who can look at your situation and give you advice on budgeting and benefits. Maintaining your tenancy is essential and we want to do everything we can to help ensure that you can.

Trident Group has launched a brand-new fund to help residents. The Beacon of Hope Fund launched on Monday, 24 October 2022 will be available to all residents who are experiencing difficulty in the cost-of-living crisis.

The Beacon of Hope Fund will provide practical help with unexpected costs and expenses. The aim is to provide a long-term solution by engaging with residents and working with relevant teams who can help with benefits, financial, and budgeting advice following the grant.

Residents can refer themselves through our 12 roadshows or through our Housing Officers. All applicants will be informed of the decision and their application will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

The Beacon of Hope Fund will provide help with bills, rising or unexpected household costs. This will be done through payments directly to providers or vouchers. No cash will be handed directly to residents.

To apply, ask for a form from your Housing Officer or Income Management Officer. You can find out who they are by going to Trident Group – Homes and Communities Team or calling 0121 633 4633. Alternatively email us at hopefund@tridentgroup.org.uk

Every resident has access to a named Income Management Officer as well as a Housing Officer. They will help you to maintain your tenancy. Our Income Management Team provide an excellent customer-focussed service to all Trident Housing residents, ensuring that you are aware of your responsibility to pay your rent on time and regularly. They will also offer you support to:

maximise your income
monitor, support and manage Universal Credit and other welfare benefits
ensuring the robust and timely management of debt to minimise rent and service charge lost due to non-payment, thus leading to you falling in arrears
offer advice and encourage debt counselling and refer tenants to specialist advice
advise further on preventative action to be taken to stop you falling into arrears

To contact the team, please call 0121 633 4633 or email IncomeManagement@tridentgroup.org.uk

Tenancy Sustainment is a service designed to help Trident Housing residents, who find it difficult to manage their tenancies, those facing homelessness or requiring assistance because of their specific need or vulnerability.

The Tenancy Sustainment Services can help you with:

All tenancy related matters and housing advice
Liaising with internal services across Trident Group and external agencies, ensuring you get the right assistance
Benefit advice
Reducing your rent arrears and supporting you to ensure your rent is paid on time
Offering advice on keeping your home in good condition

Check your benefits eligibility – it is predicted millions of eligible households miss out on benefits they are entitled to. You may be eligible for Universal Credit even if you or your partner work.
- Check your eligibility for free or speak to your Income Management Officers for advice on 0121 633 4633
It is always best to talk – if you are struggling with rising costs and are worried about paying bills, it is always best to get in touch with your providers.
- Most energy providers have support that can help you manage your bills.
- If you are worried about paying your rent, always contact us.
Take a look at your budget – see if there any areas that you can reduce your spending. This may be subscriptions, gym memberships, or other expenses that add up.
Save money and water – applying for a water meter or for free water saving gadgets can help cut your heating and water bills. Contact your water provider for more information.
Heat yourself or your family – you can save an estimated £100 by turning your heating down by 1°C and wearing extra layers of clothing. It is important to keep your heating on at least once per day especially in colder weather as it prevents pipes bursting
Look at more energy efficient appliances to reduce energy consumption which will reduce the cost of your bills