Household bills are on the rise, and many families are feeling the pinch.
In what has been referred to as "Awful April", several costs have increased significantly: water bills have risen by 6%, council tax by up to 5%, and the TV licence fee has jumped by 6.6% (BBC).
These increases have stretched incomes further, leaving many struggling to make ends meet. The financial strain has not only impacted budgets but also mental health and wellbeing, as the stress of mounting bills weighs heavily on households.
This was the case for Nadia, a single parent trying tirelessly to provide for her young child while juggling the growing burden of household bills.
Nadia’s Story
As a single parent, Nadia has always done her best to manage her finances and ensure her child is cared for. However, rising household costs meant that her Universal Credit payments were no longer enough to cover her bills, leading to utility arrears and mounting stress.
Fortunately, as a tenant with L&Q, Nadia was able to access support through Pound Advice – a money and debt advice programme funded by L&Q and delivered by We Are Group.
During her session with a Pound Advice agent, Nadia received practical guidance that helped her take control of her finances. Together, they completed a benefits calculator to ensure Nadia was receiving all the support she was entitled to. They also worked through a budget planner, teaching her effective ways to manage her money and make the most of her benefits.
The agent was able to secure a £150 supermarket voucher for Nadia through the Household Support Fund, providing immediate relief for her and her child.
Additionally, Nadia was referred to several other organisations for further assistance, including:
- L&Q’s Employment Support Scheme, to help her re-enter the workforce.
- StepChange, for expert debt advice.
- Turn2us Grants Search, to explore available grants.
- Lighting Reach and The National Benevolent Charity, for additional financial support.
Thanks to Pound Advice and the network of support, Nadia is now in a much better place both financially and emotionally. She has regained control of her finances, is receiving the benefits she is entitled to, and has access to resources to help her improve her situation long-term.
Nadia shared that the Pound Advice programme exceeded her expectations, providing her with invaluable tools, advice, and support during one of the most challenging times of her life.
Nadia’s story highlights the difference Pound Advice can make in people’s lives. By providing tailored financial advice and connecting individuals to essential resources, we help relieve the pressures of financial hardship and empower tenants to build brighter futures for themselves and their families.
If you or someone you know needs support, reach out to us today.
*For anonymity, we have used a fake name and image.
