Almost 800 tenants across Dumfries and Galloway have been helped to claim more than £1.3 million in welfare benefits in the past six months, thanks to the region’s largest social landlord.
Wheatley Homes South, part of Wheatley Group, has helped support customers through the cost-of-living crisis, with welfare benefits advisors assisting 742 tenants to claim £1,313,710 since April 2023. During the previous 12 months, advisors helped tenants access a total of £1.6m.
Nancy, who lives north of Dumfries, was supported by Fiona Thomson, one of Wheatley Homes South’s Benefits Advisors. She was able to access pension credits, housing benefit, attendance allowance and other benefits she was entitled to, giving the household around £20,000 extra over the course of the year.
“During a visit from our housing officer, she mentioned the benefits advice service and got Fiona to get in touch. She was able to tell us all about the benefits we were entitled to but weren’t claiming for. Neither me nor my husband knew about some of them.
“If anyone is a Wheatley customer and struggling, get in touch with Wheatley Homes South. They are there to help and will be able to support you. It has made such a big difference to us.”
Wheatley’s benefits advice service is part of the Group’s wraparound support available to customers, which has seen a surge in demand during the cost-of-living crisis.
Alan Glasgow, Managing Director of Wheatley Homes South, said: “I’m very proud to hear of the difference our benefit advisors have made to the lives of tenants, and I hope that support gives them one less thing to worry about.
“It is very clear that the welfare benefits system can be complex for people to navigate. Tenants may presume they’re already getting all the financial support available, or they’re not entitled to anything. Others may worry their claim will be rejected or they struggle to apply online.
“Welfare benefits are a vital safety net for many people on low-incomes, particularly in this cost-of-living crisis. We are here to help tenants claim all of the benefits they are entitled to. The support and advice we can offer is life-changing.”
Wheatley offers a wide range of additional support services for tenants who need extra support, including fuel advisors, employability support and training and our ‘Here for You’ campaign – supporting those hit hardest by the cost-of-living crisis.
Tenants who want to book an online or telephone appointment with a welfare benefit advisor should contact Wheatley Homes South’s Customer First Centre on 0800 011 3447.
