As one of our dedicated Tenancy Sustainment Officers, Joanne supports those in our communities who need it most – and as the cost-of-living crisis rages on, we’ve seen more and more customers coming forward to seek support with making their benefits go further.
To support this growing need, we run regular drop-in sessions to help customers maximise their benefits. Recently, we ran a drop-in day for customers to check if they could claim pension credit…
Barry, a rock and roll fan with a passion for gardening, visited Calico to review his pension claim. Together, Joanne and Barry sat down and did a few calculations. Although he wasn’t entitled to pension credit, we still managed to support him in other ways.
Joanne noticed Barry was paying full rent, so she submitted a claim to get help with rent and council tax. A couple of weeks later, Barry got a letter informing him of his additional Housing Benefit and Council Tax support.
Sadly, on the same day, Barry rang Joanne to tell her that his daughter had suddenly died. Joanne tried to comfort him and reassured him that her support would continue and she was only ever a phone call away.
Like many, he was worried how the funeral costs would be covered. Joanne reassured him that we could assist him in this applying for support too. Barry said: “Calico have helped me so much. This money has made a hell of a difference to my life”.
Bringing new life to his garden
From attending our pension credit drop in event, Barry’s income has been maximised, allowing the Burnley born and bred army veteran to fully enjoy his home and garden.
Barry’s quaint corner plot is now thriving, with vibrant petunias, marigolds, and rhododendrons adding a pop of colour to the space.
Barry added: “The extra money helps me to keep my garden nice. It really has made a difference. I can look at my garden and feel happy.”
“I love it here. Even if I won the lottery, I still wouldn’t move”, he jokingly confessed.
Barry has lived in his Calico home for over nine years; a bungalow he shared with his wife. Although she sadly passed away a few years ago, the photos adorning his home act as a loving reminder of more than five decades of marriage – a romance that began at the iconic Sandygate Youth Club.
Also, like plenty of men from his generation, Barry has medical conditions resulting from decades of working in the coal mines. He said: “I can now buy some extra things to help me manage my disability, including tin openers and buttonhole adaptation aids”.
Barry concluded: “I’m not giving into this life – I will not surrender. I might even be able to go and watch one of my favourite rock and roll shows. It will be a while before I’m better, but I can relax and not worry about money as much and spend time with my granddaughter and remaining family. Calico and Joanne – Thank you so so much.”
If you’d like to speak to our Tenancy Sustainment Team, get in touch with us on 01282 686300 or drop us an email on moneywise@calico.org.uk