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Sheltered housing residents supported with cost of living

Posted on : 14 Feb 2023

Sheltered housing residents supported with cost of living
Staff and residents at Waunrhydd sheltered housing scheme in Gelligaer
Residents at Caerphilly County Borough Council owned sheltered housing schemes have been receiving one to one support and advice, to help them with the cost of living crisis.

A dedicated team set up by the Council has been visiting schemes offering residents the opportunity to meet with staff to discuss any concerns they have and to find support.

At the sheltered housing schemes visited to date, the team has assisted 16 residents with claiming their £200 winter fuel payments and completed over 15 Pension Credit checks.  In addition, residents have also received advice on energy and water bills, with staff contacting providers on their behalf when needed, as well as exploring other benefit entitlements they might not have been aware of.

The team has also issued 250 residents with low energy light bulbs; with almost 1500 bulbs issues in total.
 
One of the residents who attended a session said “I thought I had too much savings to be entitled to Pension Credit, but the team checked for me and informed me I am.”

Another resident added “I thought I had already claimed the winter fuel payment of £200, but this one was with the council.  I’m not on the internet and have difficulty hearing, so the team came out to visit me at my home.”
Cllr Shayne Cook, the Council’s Cabinet Member for Housing, commented “This is a particularly challenging time for many and we understand that it can be even more concerning for vulnerable residents. 

“This initiative has removed barriers by enabling residents to have personal face to face conversations with knowledgeable and experienced staff who’ve been able to make a real difference.”

If you have concerns about yourself, a friend or family member who is struggling with the rising cost of living contact the team by calling 01443 811490, email CaerphillyCares@caerphilly.gov.uk or visit www.caerphilly.gov.uk/services/cost-of-living-support
 

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