In a recent resident survey, you told us you wanted to understand more about the services Eastlight offers and who runs them. Here, we introduce our Tenancy Sustainment Team, who are always on hand to help.
Last year, we helped 456 residents maintain their independence, self-esteem, quality of life and wellbeing. We’ll continue to do this by offering a range of support, including:
- Advice on managing your bills
- Ensuring you get the benefits you’re entitled to
- Help to get online
- Issuing food bank vouchers
- Assistance if you’re experiencing domestic abuse
- Supporting you if you're not comfortable about letting people into your home – for example, for an essential safety check
Our Tenancy Support Team includes Georgina, who explained: “Most of my week is spent in residents’ homes, giving one-to-one support. We help residents connect with other support services, address debt issues and help to declutter their homes so they can manage their lives more easily.
“I love making a difference. I am passionate about making communities more inclusive, reducing poverty and supporting those most in need to live the best life they possibly can.”
Please do contact us if you’re struggling or feeling worried. We are here to listen and help.
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Introducing Tenancy Sustainment Co-ordinator, Renae
“I believe everyone should feel safe and secure in their home. What inspires me to do my job is knowing I am making a difference or avoiding a crisis from happening. I always imagine me or a family member in that situation and hope that, by giving support, I am enabling residents to live a better life. “I want our residents to know you don’t have to suffer in silence and that we’ll listen with empathy and without judgement. “You never know what life is going to throw at you and if I can help someone learn new skills and ways to cope, or know who to reach out to in times of need, I get a real sense of fulfilment.”
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In 2020, Eastlight resident Liz Martin was suddenly rushed to hospital after collapsing suddenly.
There, she was diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome, a rare and serious condition which left her paralysed and using a wheelchair.
When she was released from hospital, it quickly became clear her first-floor flat was unsuitable. Liz, who can only walk a few steps at a time, started experiencing poor mental health and was struggling to get support to manage her finances.
When Renae, one of our Tenancy Sustainment Coordinators, became aware she sprang into action.
She worked with Liz to successfully bid to move to a bungalow in Braintree, arranged a moving company to help pack her belongings and liaised with the NHS to ensure Liz could be transported safely to her new home. Renae also arranged for Eastlight’s Aids & Adaptations Service to install ramps and grab rails in her wet room to help Liz get around more easily.
Liz has now been living in her home for 18 months and says: “You really pulled out all the stops for me – I really appreciate it. My new home is lovely – it still feels like new."
