Housing group helped tenants reclaim £20 million in benefits

Wheatley, the group behind the initiative, assisted more than 7300 tenants, enabling them to claim the benefits they were entitled to.

The group is now urging those in need of support with their benefits claims to reach out for help, regardless of whether they are unsure of their entitlement, have savings, or are currently earning.

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It is estimated that a huge £23 billion of welfare benefits go unclaimed every year across the UK.

Tenant Liz Kerr, 67, from Knightswood, expressed her gratitude for the support she received from Wheatley after retiring and needing guidance on claiming benefits.

She said: "My advisor David, was absolutely brilliant.

"He dealt with the DWP, helped me fill in forms, and sorted various benefits for me, including council tax and the winter fuel allowance.

"The complexity of the benefits system holds people back.

"I was getting myself into a panic, but David really took the pressure off me.

"It was a real weight off my shoulders and I’m better off financially.

"I don’t know what I would have done without his help.

"Anyone who is worried should talk to their housing officer.

"The help is out there."

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John Kincaid and Joanna Martin, who are part of Wheatley’s financial wellbeing team, have encouraged tenants who are concerned about their benefits to make contact.

John Kincaid, who has also worked as a housing officer in Glasgow for 13 years, said: "We are always here to support tenants.

"The benefits system can be complex and intimidating and people don’t always know what they are due.

"I’d urge any tenant to contact us so we can do a benefits check.

"You might be better off financially.

"Come and talk to us.

"We can help."

Joanna Martin, who has provided benefits advice for two decades, added: "We understand the economic difficulties many of our customers face.

"Our support can make a big difference.

"People might not know where to turn for help.

"I’d advise any Wheatley tenant to pick up the phone and get in touch.

"Even if you have savings or a steady income, even if you are in arrears, get in touch.

"We are here to help you."

The Wheatley Foundation offers a range of services aimed at tackling social exclusion and alleviating poverty.

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These include welfare benefits advice, support to improve financial stability, assistance in gaining employment and training, and education bursaries.

The foundation, celebrating its tenth anniversary this year, also collaborates with partners to provide tenants with access to healthy, low-cost food at larders and pantries in Sandyhills, Drumchapel, and Kennishead in Glasgow, as well as a new community shop in Knightswood.

The group has highlighted the importance of tenants reaching out to their housing officer if they require any support.