Relief of debt crisis resident

A resident who feared being made homeless after she spiralled into debt has described the help received from Erewash Borough Ccouncil as a "godsend", adding: “A massive weight has been lifted off my shoulders.”

The renter faced mounting arrears after being left out of work. It was causing ever-increasing mental anguish until caseworkers on the council’s Revenue & Benefits team stepped in.

The resident was initially too proud to seek help despite council tax bills also piling up, but months of anguish came to an end – thanks to the borough council’s Household Support Fund. It has helped 103 households desperately struggling with rent and council tax, a council report reveals. 

Emergency payments were made to 26 individuals who faced losing their homes. And 19 households qualified for help with other bills such as gas and electricity. Government money for the fund is allocated to Erewash by Derbyshire County Council in a scheme that has now been extended.

The story of the grateful resident emerged in a report to a meeting held by borough council leader James Dawson and his team of councillors. 

She told officials: “The Household Support Fund has helped me as I have tried so hard to work out my rent arrears and council tax from when I came out of work, leading to a lot of stress and anxiety.

“I tried for months to sort it out but ended up digging a further hole for myself. I am not one to ask for help but I am glad I did. I've had nothing but support. This has affected me positively as a massive weight has been lifted off my shoulders.

“I feel like I can breathe again. This has majorly helped with my mental health. Now I feel like I can look forward to the future instead of panicking about what I'm going to be able to afford and whether I'm going to be taken to court or even lose my home.

“I now feel like I can start afresh and I also have a second chance at building myself up again. Words cannot describe just what the Household Support Fund has done for me and I am so grateful that this is an option for people. Thank you to all who are a part of this fund.”

Crisis-hit residents can find out more about the help available here: Household Support Fund