Coastline is urging its residents throughout Kerrier not to let the credit crunch bite by making sure rent arrears don't get out of control.
To give customers help and advice, Coastline's Income Management Team will be working with residents on estates throughout the district in two 'Arrears Action Days' to be held on Wednesday 12th November and Friday 12th December.
The action days provide an opportunity for residents who have concerns about difficulties with paying their rent to get some helpful advice. Helping to reduce rent arrears has a positive effect on everyone in the community, as it means extra money is released to help improve homes and neighbourhoods.
Staff from across the company will join the Income Management Team in making visits and calls on the action days to make sure that as many residents as possible who have arrears can be contacted.
The days will provide a chance for customers to make sure their rent accounts are up to date, as well as the chance to access advice about paying their rent, claiming benefits they may be entitled to and referrals to other agencies that can help with debt management.
Coastline's Director of Housing and Support Louise Beard said: "The Arrears Action Days are a massive team effort involving everyone in the organisation. They are part of a range of initiatives we have introduced to reduce rent arrears and assist with debt management in these difficult economic times.
"The vast majority of our customers understand the importance of prioritising their rent. But currently we understand that pressures on incomes are particularly acute. However, staff at Coastline can provide confidential help and advice, working with customers to prevent them from getting into further debt."
Customers who would like to discuss a rent issue with their Income Management Officer or who would like advice about benefits or debt management can contact Coastline on 08082 027728 or email IncomeManagementTeam@coastlinehousing.co.uk
