Ethos Public Relations Manchester

Landlord offers debt advice

by Ethos public relations

As the unemployment figures continue to rise, social landlord Peak Valley Housing Association in Hattersley & Mottram is developing plans to ensure that its residents do not get into financial difficulties.

Housing Manager Joanne Danaher said: "The latest unemployment figures for Tameside show that almost 7% of the working population of Hattersley are unemployed. The April 09 figures show a 69.3% increase in unemployment here, compared to the same time last year - and we therefore believe it is important to take active steps to help people avoid debt."

Joanne said that it is vital that people come to Peak Valley as soon as their personal circumstances change.

"The message we want to get across is that we can work with you to manage rent payments. Our policy is to start talking to customers as soon as we see any rent arrears so that the situation does not get out of hand.

"We can point people in the direction of practical help and advice but most importantly we will work up a rent payment plan that avoids massive rent arrears."

Peak Valley works closely with other partners in the area. The Hattersley Neighbourhood Partnership can provide re-training and will advise on local jobs available; the local authority Housing Options team provides advice on benefits; MINT (Money Information Network Tameside) provides free debt advice and give practical information. There is also free advice available on saving money on fuel consumption, as well as a whole range of other useful guides.

"Unfortunately the rise in unemployment also means a rise in unscrupulous loan sharks who are only too keen to take advantage of people when they feel most vulnerable," said Joanne.

"Financial problems and mounting debt can seem like the end of the world and cause a great deal of stress. But remember there are numerous organisations, agencies and services in this area that have been set up to help you and they will even liaise with debtors to help manage the problem.

"The clear message from Peak Valley Housing Association is don't suffer in silence, contact us on 0345 270 3501," adds Joanne.

*Photo courtesy of FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Posted at 22^nd June 2009