NPT Homes Team on Hand to Help Tenants Affected by Universal Credit

One year on from when Universal Credit arrived in Neath Port Talbot, the largest social housing provider in the area is encouraging those affected to contact them for support.

NPT Homes has a designated Universal Credit team formed to provide advice and guidance to those tenants affected by the Government benefit change.

Universal Credit combines six benefits and tax credits into one monthly payment for some tenants who are single, living alone, recently unemployed and under the age of 60 and 6 months. There will be a rollout of additional claimant criteria within the next two years, to include families and couples.

Over the next few years it is expected that 4,000 NPT Homes tenants will be affected and as a result the housing provider is offering help with the changes. The team can support people to submit a claim, offer budgeting and money advice, provide help to manage tenancies and accompanying tenants at appointments with the Jobcentre.

Mark Edwards from the Universal Credit Team said:

“We have five members of staff dedicated to supporting our tenants who will be affected by Universal Credit now and in the coming years.

From submitting the initial claim, to offering budgeting support and help to manage their tenancy with us. It’s important that people realise that we are on hand to help during what can be a completely alien experience for them.

If tenants are already claiming Universal Credit it’s important that they notify us so we can help supply important paperwork to support their claim.”

Ms Griffin who has benefitted from the support of the team said:

“When the place I had worked for many years closed, I didn’t know where to turn. The Universal Credit team at NPT Homes really helped me. I have never had to use a computer before so it was a relief that someone was able to show me how to do it so I could submit my claim online. I would encourage anyone who needs help or advice to contact the team.”

Ms Jones also spoke highly of the help received:

“Waiting 6 weeks for my first universal credit payment was tough but the team helped me out with foodbank vouchers so I could get by. They also helped me with budgeting so that I could make my money last all month. This has resulted in me moving to a smaller property to make things more affordable.”

If you are claiming Universal Credit, or would like help or advice regarding Universal Credit please contact our Universal Credit Team call 01639 315000 or email universalcredit@npthomes.co.uk, more information is also available on NPT Homes’ website www.npthomes.co.uk, just search Universal Credit.