Money Advice in Greenwich Emma Knight - Greenwich Citizens Advice Julie Dennis – Greenwich Council

The debt The level of personal debt in the UK 1.2 trillion £1,200,000,000,000

The impact The ODPM recognise that debt can cause Family Breakdown Child Poverty Stress Homelessness and recommends the funding of advice services

The local story High levels of debt Has the 10 th most deprived ward in London 56% of council tenants on Housing Benefit Over 6.5 million in current rent arrears

The local story In the year 2005/2006 Over 3,000 Notices served 1,790 court orders 162 Evictions We are changing how we collect the rent to reduce these figures

The rent Greenwich now put more emphasis on Sign up Early contact Negotiation skills for staff Welfare rights training

The plan More effective use of all staff Specialisation Improvements to IT Reduction in letters and increase in personal contact Improve liaison within the council and beyond

The partnership Two thirds of tenants in rent arrears have multiple debt Decision to try and tackle the broader picture Need for an independent service, which adds up to

Greenwich Citizens Advice Provides independent, free confidential advice on a range of issues including Benefits Housing Employment Consumer rights Debt

The Service Greenwich Money Advice Specialist debt advice Identifies priority debts Negotiates with creditors Maximises income Financial literacy training

The Service Outreach Money Advice Service Launched in 2004, a partnership between Greenwich Council and the CAB and forms part of GMAS. Funded by: Greenwich Council Neighbourhood renewal SRB6 Housing Associations

The Service Aimed at the most disadvantaged people in the borough 7 sessions a week in different venues across the borough Full translation and interpreting service available

The results In 1 year 305 clients helped 44% from BME groups 13% were disabled people 44% council tenants helped Dealt with a total debt of £5,278,660 Income gained: £11,753 Homelessness prevented in 134 cases