A social landlord with 1,000 homes in South Leeds is offering its tenants help with managing their money.
Leeds Federated Housing Association is urging its residents to be cash-smart in 2013 by taking advantage of free financial support.
The association has a range of services available including a dedicated Financial Inclusion Officer offering confidential one-to-one advice, budgeting guidance, debt and benefit support and more to help people better manage their money.
Community Development Manager Sue Jennings said: “If Christmas was more costly than you had budgeted for, or your New Year resolution is to get smarter with your finances then we can help you to make a fresh start.
“Our services are friendly and confidential and could be the first step to getting your money on track, whatever your financial circumstances.”
Alongside these services Leeds Fed is running a competition for its tenants to find the best money-saving tips, in partnership with Keepmoat, with the chance to win a PlayStation3.
Tenants can send in their tips, in no more than 20 words, that could include anything from how to save energy around the home to how to get the best shopping deals.
Leeds Fed can help to assess tenants’ finances and put an action plan in place to help keep things on track.
Advisors can help to work out a realistic debt payment plan and speak to creditors or can fast track tenants to specialist support.
They also offer a benefit maximiser service to ensure tenants are accessing all the benefits they are entitled to with help to complete the necessary forms and can assist with opening a bank or credit union account.
“This competition is designed to get residents thinking about all the ways they can maximise their household budgets and by sharing your tips you can help others save money too,” said Sue.
“We know financial problems can be a huge source of worry for some of our customers and we are here to help.”
You can submit your money saving tips until 1st March by emailing customerservice@leedsfed.com, via Facebook at Leeds Federated Housing Association or Twitter using @leedsfederated.
Leeds Fed’s Financial Inclusion Officer Lee Welsh can be contacted on 0113 386 1124.
