Involvement

Needs mapping

Communication

Listening

Understanding

Development

Empowerment

Working as part of Rhondda Cynon Taff’s ‘Supporting Housing’ strategy, Rhondda Housing Association provides low level housing support for their own tenants and other service users within RCT. The scheme is called “INCLUDE” and has been running successfully since March 2003. The Supported Housing Team consists of eight staff including: a supported housing manager, administrative officer and six housing support officers.

The aim of the scheme is to ensure that residents of Rhondda Cynon Taff are able to access low level housing support, not normally available through other social agencies. Essentially, we strive to enable individuals and their families to take charge of their lives and help them to cope with the responsibilities of living independently.

How do we provide support?

The housing support that we offer, is a two way process between the individual and the support officer. The 'INCLUDE' team listens to the service user and agrees a support plan. The support plan sets out goals and regular visits are undertaken to ensure that goals are achieved and matters are resolved.

What does the 'INCLUDE' scheme offer?

The scheme is unique, in that it offers individuals the opportunity to use and develop their own skills in order to achieve housing and personal goals, which undoubtedly raises self-esteem and confidence in their own abilities. We also have strong links with employment, education, health and various other agencies. For example, we are currently working with the Community Development department within Rhondda Housing Association, to encourage people who receive our support to increase their skills in literacy and numeracy.

Primarily, we focus upon practical life skills support, and provide information and advice on a whole range of housing related issues, such as:

• Housing and welfare benefits advice
• Help with managing money and dealing with debt
• Sorting out housing issues, such as rent arrears or repairs
• Advice about moving home
• Assisting in dealing with letters and bills
• Liasing with other specialist agencies

Who can access support?

Housing Support is available to individuals who live within the Rhondda Cynon Taff county borough council area. You can be a tenant of a registered social landlord, private rental tenant, council tenant and a homeowner. The support we provide is FREE of charge and completely confidential. For further details, please contact Lorraine Griffiths direct at the Supporting People Team on 01443 424465.