Single mother saved from debt trap by hero money advisors

Money-saving superstars from Futures Housing Group have saved a customer from debt by securing council cash.  

Zowie Collett was drowning in  debt after a relationship breakdown left her struggling to support her family and find full time work.  

The single mum from Amber Valley was then left unable to pay her rent – until the Money Advice Team from Futures stepped in and helped her apply for Discretionary Housing Payments (DHP) from Amber Valley Borough Council.  

She was awarded £2,731 which cleared her outstanding arrears and was also given budgeting advice and referred to Futures Gateway, the Group’s employability programme.  

Zowie said: “It felt like a weight had suddenly been lifted off my shoulders, and I will admit I cried tears of happiness.  

“I am still and always will be so grateful for all the support and help I was given."  

Zowie was identified as struggling through Futures’ Rent Arrears Project in which money advisers proactively contact customers in need of support, without a lengthy referral process.  

Money adviser Elizabeth Spencer, who was the first to offer Zowie help in applying for DHP, said:  “Although the project is relatively new, it's been great to see what a huge impact it's had on our customers’ ability to sustain their tenancies, avoid eviction and know they have somewhere to turn to.  

“Already the project has gained more than £7,000 additional income through DHP, charities and additional benefits and I believe we will be helping many more customers in the future.”