FCHO highlights its Need a Hand customer support campaign

First Choice Homes Oldham (FCHO) is highlighting its ongoing Need a Hand customer support campaign ahead of winter and renewed cost-of-living pressures.

Rises in food and energy prices remain a concern and Need a Hand can potentially help any of the 23,500 people living in FCHO homes who might be struggling, the housing association explained.  

Help and support finding work or a better paid position is a major part of the campaign. Between November 2024 and March this year, 72 people started work following FCHO help and an average of £767 was added to their monthly income.  

Other support is centred around help with energy bills, access to personal independence (PIP) payments, fuel and warm homes vouchers and furniture packs. Customers struggling with rent and charges could be offered a payment plan.   

“Over last winter, FCHO helped 1500 customers with a variety of support to help find work, receive the benefits they are entitled to or advice and practical solutions to tackle a range of cost-of-living pressures,” said FCHO’s executive director of customer experience, Jayne Lawson.  

“Our specialist teams stand ready to help this winter if anyone is struggling to manage day-to-day costs or they are worried about other financial issues.  

“If we cannot help then we are able to signpost to other organisations who can, so getting in contact with FCHO is a good start.”  

She added: “Need a Hand runs all year around but the winter months are the busiest time, so we are shining a spotlight on our services now to ensure as many people as possible hear about the campaign and get in touch if they need to.”