Tenants across Ayrshire have accessed more than £1.3 million in previously unclaimed benefits after support from Ayrshire Housing’s Financial Wellbeing Team.
The team helped 318 households last year to secure financial support they were entitled to but had not been receiving. Its work includes checking benefits entitlement, assisting with applications and disputes, supporting debt management and helping households prepare budgets.
Support with household finances
Ayrshire Housing chief executive Lesley-Anne Junner said:
“With the ongoing cost of living crisis a cost our Wellbeing team are crucial resource in helping our customers access what they are entitled to and in helping them make the most of their money.”
The results were reported at the housing association’s recent annual general meeting. The meeting also reviewed progress during the first year of Ayrshire Housing’s 2025-2030 Business Plan, which is focused on people, properties, places and processes.
New affordable homes planned for Ayr
Board chair Georgina Dawson said the association had continued to invest in its housing stock. She said surveys and planning work had improved its understanding of property condition, supporting efforts to keep homes warm, safe and well maintained.
The organisation also completed Net Zero retrofit projects in Crosshill and Barr. The projects were supported by Scottish Government funding and are intended to improve energy efficiency while reducing environmental impact.
Work has started on 32 new affordable homes at Green Street in Ayr. Ayrshire Housing said the development will provide housing to help meet local need while supporting its longer-term growth plans.
Dawson said:
“We have continued to invest heavily in our homes. “During the year, we strengthened our understanding of the condition of our housing stock through ongoing surveys and planning work, helping us ensure our homes remain warm, safe, and well maintained. “We completed innovative Net Zero retrofit projects in Crosshill and Barr, supported by Scottish Government funding, helping to improve energy efficiency while reducing environmental impact. “At the same time, we continued to grow. “Work commenced on 32 new affordable homes at Green Street in Ayr, a development that will provide much-needed housing and contribute to meeting local need while supporting our longer-term growth ambitions.”
Ayrshire Housing was formed in 2003 through the merger of Carrick Housing Association and South Ayrshire Homes. It now manages 1,700 homes across urban and rural areas.