Kelly's Story

Kelly became known to Housing Matters when she was referred by Charnwood Borough Council. At the time of the referral, Kelly was unable to manage her tenancy independently and debts were becoming unmanageable due to her Employment and Support Allowance claim having been suspended.

Additionally, Kelly was residing in a property in which she no longer felt safe due to being a victim of domestic abuse from her partner, with whom she was expecting her first child. Kelly’s circumstances were causing her to experience extreme anxiety and she felt unable to leave her property alone. Kelly has also had Social Care involvement since her baby was born due to the aforementioned issues.

With support, Kelly’s Employment and Support Allowance was reinstated and a claim for Personal Independence Payments was accepted at tribunal stage after appealing the original decision that she was not eligible. Kelly set up affordable payment plans for her outstanding debts and has been supported to move to a new property where she feels safe with her newborn baby. As a result of the excellent progress that has been made, Social Care are due to end their involvement in the near future and Kelly’s anxiety has continually improved as has her confidence to integrate more into the community.

Kelly is now managing her tenancy independently, has a safe and secure home and feels as though her mental health has significantly improved as a result of the support provided to her by her Housing Matters Support Worker.