Tenancy and Financial Support Team
This invaluable team was launched in 2024 as a pilot project, to support tenants facing hardship related to housing and living expenses. Due to their huge impact and success, it has now been made a permanent part of the Housing and Property Service.
During 2025-26:
- 899 referrals were received
- 390 tenants were supported to apply for grants and benefits
- 660 tenants needed more intensive support
- Just over £1.2million in unclaimed benefits was secured, around £1,650 for each household supported
- 113 people were supported to reduce their monthly outgoings by £73,000, averaging £646 per household
- The highest financial gain for one tenant was £28,882
- The team helped to reduce the arrears for those tenants supported by £133,970, an average of £203 per tenant
In addition, tenants may be eligible for the Water Rate Discount scheme if their household’s annual income is less than £30,000. Call the Income Team on 0191 643 6381 for more information.
“My life felt completely upside down and after losing my job due to ill health, I had no idea how to navigate the systems required to get my life back on track. My partner and I were supported through the entire process of transferring over to benefits and got invaluable financial guidance. Without the support and interaction we received, my life would still be in a very difficult place.” Tenant from North Shields
“I received brilliant support to resolve issues with my Universal Credit payments, the team was in regular contact and kept me updated which helped to take away some of the stress. I think that this is such an important service.” Tenant from Backworth