Preventing money worries from spiralling out of control

A £3,852 grant is helping members of the Irish Network to avoid financial crisis

The Irish Network Stevenage is helping its members avoid financial crisis by providing practical advice and support.

The project has been enabled thanks to a £3,852 grant provided by Hertfordshire Community Foundation.

Helen Gray, Foundation Director for Hertfordshire Community Foundation said; “As an independent charity we raise funds to help local small projects and charitable groups working to improve the lives of Hertfordshire’s residents. Irish Network Stevenage aims to assist people facing financial difficulties in the early stages. We are delighted that this grant will directly support local residents by helping to prevent financial hardship.”

“At HCF we understand that poverty can bring about increased isolation and loneliness, which leads to anxiety and worsening mental health. This project offers step-by step support through a difficult time by helping people review their utility and insurance costs, investigate other options and help to obtain appropriate financial support.”

Elaine Connolly, Project Manager for Irish Network Stevenage said; “Based on our experiences many older people who are struggling financially are paying too much for services and/or not receiving the financial help available to them. Not only do they not understand all the terminology and official requirements but they find help hard to access. By providing this service within our social club we can help people who would have continued to suffer in silence until they reach a financial crisis.”

Hertfordshire Community Foundation manages charitable funds donated by local individuals, families, businesses and trusts and is dedicated to helping Hertfordshire communities grow by creating opportunities and tackling issues of deprivation and need.