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Staying Warm Guide Published

Posted By:
NIFHA

10th Mar 2023

A new information booklet has been developed as part of the HACT NI Community Investment Network (the Network) which is group which has representation from organisations across the social housing sector including housing associations, Supporting Communities, NIHE and NIFHA and was formed in 2020 with the purpose of connecting key stakeholders in the social housing sector.  The Network meets monthly with the purpose of influencing positive change by addressing issues impacting social housing tenants across Northern Ireland, this includes the identification of community investment projects designed to advocate positive change for social housing tenants.

In Autumn 2022 the Network conducted a survey with tenants to determine the key issues impacting them during the cost-of-living-crisis.  Survey results indicated the top concerns were 1) the rising costs of electricity/ gas/ oil (89% of tenants highlighted this as a top concern) and the rising cost of groceries (80% of tenants noted this as a top concern).  57% of Tenants also demonstrated an interest in receiving information on energy saving tips from their landlord, preferring the use of tenant packs and flyers as opposed to online information.

Based on the results of this survey, the Network  commenced work on producing tenant packs for social housing tenants, who are the most vulnerable to the impact of rising costs/fuel & food poverty.  These packs are aimed at helping tenants reduce costs within the home and save money, though the provision of money saving/ energy saving tips, and information on keeping warm and healthy during the colder months.  The packs also include sign-posting information to organisations which can offer support/advice to the most vulnerable during the cost-of-living-crisis.

A PDF booklet can be downloaded here: Cost of Living Booklet Digital

If you want to do your own print-run of the booklet, you can download a printable version here: Cost of Living Booklet Printable