Hundreds of residents in social housing in Oldham reported to their landlord that they couldn't afford basics last year.

First Choice Homes Oldham (FCHO) said more than 850 residents were struggling to make ends meet and contacted their landlord for practical advice throughout 2023.

The social housing provider worked to help its customers save more than £112,000 collectively, by accessing good quality food for a fraction of the price through a partnership with The Bread and Butter Thing.

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In doing so, FCHO said it helped to increase the amount of disposable income in customers' pockets so that they didn't have to choose between food, bills and basics.

A further 75 people were helped into work, putting on average an extra £571 in their pockets every month.

The team supported customers in need to pay their rent and charges with tailored assistance and also provided energy saving advice to help them to keep bills down.

Now, FCHO has made a fresh pledge to continue its cost-of-living support throughout the winter months for the second year running.

Its "need a hand" campaign is back to encourage residents who are struggling with their finances to reach out for free to gain confidential help from FCHO's specialist team.

Kelly Webb, Executive Director of Customer Experience at FCHO, said: "Last winter our teams saw unprecedented numbers of customers contact us for advice and support, and we are seeing a similar demand for these services this winter.

“We helped people from a range of backgrounds, from older people and families with children, to couples and single households.

"In many cases we were able to provide early help and stop them from reaching crisis point.

“We know that the cost-of-living crisis is continuing to put huge pressures on household finances, leaving some finding it very difficult to cope.

“We want customers to know we are here to give them a hand if they are struggling to manage and we encourage those who need advice or practical support to get in touch, so we can help.” 

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