Sarah's story

Sarah* was referred to us by our collections team. Her 18-year-old granddaughter had recently attempted suicide and was now living with her. The family were struggling to make ends meet.

Published: 11/03/2020

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When we met with Sarah, we found that her granddaughter was already getting counselling through her college. We identified a few extra ways we could help and put them in place.

Support provided:

• A Resident Support Fund application was completed for a food voucher, a fridge freezer and a gas hob – all of which were awarded, delivered and installed
• We referred Sarah to our financial inclusion team for help with rent arrears
• We arranged for our handyperson service to fix hallway and bathroom lights to help prevent slips and falls
• We connected the family to Pocket Power for help with a cheaper mobile phone tariff and utility bills
• Pocket Power also referred them to StepChange for advice on a debt relief order
• We gave Sarah information about talking therapies and helplines for her own depression, which she followed up herself

Sarah said: “I am a long-time tenant here at Peabody. I am currently experiencing personal difficulties to the point where I have not been paying my rent arrears. I cried out to Peabody for help and you obliged in the form of intervention. Within a short period of time, I am having some positive results in my life, that uplift me from feeling down and out.”

*Real name not used