Money advice offered to those struggling

With more and more people turning to payday loans to help pay their rent and mortgage,  Genesis Community, the charitable arm of Genesis Housing Association has a range of options available to support those in financial difficulties.

 

With rising inflation taking its toll, the level of debt owed by an average family has been found to be almost £8,000, a 47% rise since January last year. To help, Genesis Community offers welfare benefits advice workshops across London to guide residents through claim forms, appeals and overpayments. It is also working with residents to maximise their income and make money go further.

Genesis Community currently has an in-house debt advisor who offers residents advice on how to pay their and manage their money. It’s also offering a free phone line to those looking for credit, debt and money management advice.

A serious of workshops will run  from the start of February aimed at encouraging residents to get the best out of their energy supplier. The workshops, in partnership with the Citizen’s Advice Bureau and Ofgem, include how to choose the best energy deal and saving money by going green.

Margaret Roffe, Financial Inclusion Manager at Genesis, said: “We are living in a time of economic hardship with increasing pressures on household incomes and budgets. Payday loans can be seen as a solution to short term financial hardship, but with the high rates of interest payday lenders charge people can quickly get into a spiral of debt and despair.

“If people are struggling with debt, they should seek free advice, either through Genesis’ Financial Inclusion team or through their local Citizens Advice Bureau.”

Anyone looking to get involved in the free workshops should contact Genesis Community on 033 3000 9000, to speak to someone about money and debt advice, the free Credit Counselling Service number is 0800 107 2207.

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For more information contact Stephanie Basten, 020 7563 30048 or stephanie.basten@genesisha.org.uk

 

Genesis owns or manages homes across London and the south east for thousands of people. As one of the most diverse housing groups in the UK, Genesis’ main aim is to provide great services, great homes, great places and great opportunities for its customers.