Tenant rent arrears fall as support continues to make a difference

Our latest figures show a continued reduction in rent arrears, following the positive impact of personalised, early support given to hundreds of tenants.

In April this year, rent arrears stood at £641,395, a reduction of £106,973 compared to the previous year, demonstrating the success of a preventative approach that focuses on affordability, understanding individual circumstances and offering help before issues escalate, meaning fewer tenants are left with growing or unmanageable debt.

Overall former tenancy debt has also decreased to around £1,032,691, a reduction of £156,505 compared to last year.

Central to this progress is the range of support. Rather than a one size fits all approach, help is shaped around what each tenant needs, from budgeting support, benefit advice or flexible repayment arrangements.

Training opportunities, employment skills and mental health support is also offered to improve long term stability.

Anita Cleugh, Income & Specialist Housing Manager, said: “This support means so much to people. We know being in debt is incredibly stressful and can feel like a cycle with no way out, affecting every part of your life. By having early, supportive conversations, we can understand what someone is facing and put the right help in place.”

“Reducing arrears also makes our organisation more sustainable so that we can reinvest and provide even more support and opportunities to the local community.

“If you’re worried about your rent or feel you need some help, please get in touch, support is available and you don’t have to deal with things on your own.”

More information about the support available can be found at www.ongo.co.uk/supporting-you.