Financial Inclusion Project transforms lives in Runnymede

Runnymede Borough Council's innovative financial inclusion project has delivered remarkable results since its launch in April 2024, helping vulnerable residents manage debt while recovering in excess of £1.5 million for the council.

This is a major achievement for Runnymede Council in the last year. It follows the initiative to employ a dedicated Financial Inclusion and Welfare Support Officer to take a more holistic approach to debt recovery and financial support.

Impressive results

In just the first nine months, the project has achieved significant success, including:

• Housing Benefit debt has been reduced from £848,908 to £733,699
• Council Tax arrears have fallen from £3,865,321 to £2,536,601
• Parking debts have been reduced from £164,000 to £99,103

Beyond these impressive figures, the project has transformed lives by helping residents access benefits they're entitled to but weren't claiming, avoiding evictions, and creating sustainable payment plans for those in debt.

Don Whyte, Co-Leader of Runnymede Borough Council, said: "This project perfectly demonstrates our Alliance's commitment to compassionate and effective governance. By taking a person-centred approach to debt recovery, we're not only improving the council's finances but also making a real difference in the lives of our most vulnerable residents. It shows that good financial management and social responsibility can go hand in hand."

Real-life impact

Case studies demonstrate the real human impact of this work. In one instance, a 67-year-old resident on a state pension of just £500 per month was assisted with a Housing Benefit review, successful applications for Pension Credit and Attendance Allowance, and a manageable repayment plan for council tax and sundry debt arrears.

In another case, a working mother struggling with multiple debts received support to apply for Personal Independence Payment and Disability Living Allowance for her daughter. These successful applications resulted in additional income of approximately £1,286 per month plus backdated payments, enabling her to clear priority debts and escape a vicious cycle of financial hardship.

More than just debt collection

The project takes a person-centred approach, distinguishing between those who "won't pay" and those who "can't pay," providing appropriate support in each case. The Financial Inclusion Officer has opened lines of communication with hard-to-reach customers and introduced a customer engagement form to establish a mutual commitment to resolving financial issues.

The council has also introduced an online financial calculator, used by over 900 residents to check benefit entitlements and find budgeting advice.

The success of this project demonstrates how a compassionate approach to debt collection not only benefits vulnerable residents but also improves the council's finances - a win-win for the entire community.