Page 10 - Aspire_Social_Impact_Report_2021

Preventing homelessness
As the end of rental eviction restrictions and the furlough scheme looms, Aspire’s ‘Homelessness Prevention Service’ is preparing to step up further to combat the anticipated surge in homelessness as people find themselves in more precarious financial circumstances and accumulating rent arrears. On reaching this stage, many individuals and households are at risk of losing tenant rights, eligibility for the housing register, and desirability in the private rental sector.
With funding from The National Lottery Community Fund and Nationwide, our Homelessness Prevention team have expanded their reach throughout the pandemic, engaging with over 400 individuals or families concerned about their housing situation in 2020-21. In addition to the new challenges presented by the pandemic, there are a multitude of catalysts for homelessness - and it can happen quickly. Our team is supporting people in our communities
to have the resilience and confidence to maintain their tenancies and prevent their risk of homelessness at the earliest possible stage. Aspire is also working with local councils and housing providers to recognise - and offer solutions to - the soon-to-increase levels of ‘hidden homelessness’ in Oxfordshire today.
“In early 2021, I was in private accommodation on a very low income as my self-employment was impacted by COVID-19. Following a relationship breakdown, I found myself needing new accommodation with no income and no one local to turn to for support. I knew leaving would put me in a very precarious situation, but my mental health was starting to suffer.
I used my savings to address the outstanding financial obligations I could manage, applied for
jobs and accommodation, but had no success. I started to contact local charities, and found Aspire. I heard back from Aspire the day after getting in touch - and this happened to
be over the weekend. This was
a big relief, as weekends can
be long and stressful with no money. Aspire explained that I could apply for Universal Credit and new housing - even in my circumstances. I had the option to relocate near friends, and the benefits calculation was all done for me to help with my decisions.
I have now found a part-time live-in role, complemented by my freelance graphic design work, and sleep well and safe. This experience made me realise that anyone can become vulnerable at some point in their life - and charities like Aspire are gold.”
ADELINE, HOMELESSNESS PREVENTION SERVICE BENEFICIARY
10