Supported Housing Resident Training Guide
How To Use This Guide
- Review the section(s) where you answered 'No'.
- Try the suggested resources and links.
- Ask your support worker for help with any of the steps above.
- Remember: Building independence is a journey - take it one step at a time!
1. Money & Budgeting
If you answered 'NO' to any question in this section:
- Learn to manage your money
Try our free online budgeting tools like the Money Helper Budget Planner to track your income and spending. - Understand your income
Review your benefit statements or payslips. If you're unsure ask your support worker or contact Citizens Advice for help. - Know your bills
Make a list of essential bills (rent, council tax, utilities). Use the advice provided by Shelter to understand which bills to pay first. - Start budgeting
Use a notebook or an app to record what you spend each week. The StepChange budgeting tool is a great place to start.
2. Debts & Financial Commitments
If you answered 'NO' to any question in this section:
- Get debt advice
Contact StepChange or National Debtline for free, confidential support. - Learn about priority debts
Priority debts include rent, council tax, and court fines. Use the Citizens Advice Debt and money guide to find out more. - Understand non-priority debts
These include credit cards and phone contracts. The Money Helper Debt Advice Locator can help you find local support. - If you have a CCJ
Read the StepChange debt information guide to understand your options. - Ask for help
If you're not getting support, speak to your housing officer or contact one of the charities above.
3. Housing Experience & Knowledge
If you answered 'NO' to any question in this section:
- Learn about tenancies
The Shelter tenancy rights guide explains your rights and responsibilities. - Understand eviction
If you've been evicted or are worried about it, Shelter's eviction guide can help. - Know your responsibilities
Read the Citizens Advice housing advice guide for tips on being a good tenant.
4. Bills, Insurance & Household Responsibilities
If you answered 'NO' to any question in this section:
- Setting up bills
The Money Helper moving checklist covers how to set up utilities and council tax. - Insurance basics
Learn about life and contents insurance with the Money Helper everyday insurance guide. - Contacting your landlord
Keep your landlord's contact details handy. If you're unsure, ask your support worker or check your tenancy agreement. - Dealing with paperwork
If you struggle with letters or official documents, ask for help from your support worker or use the Citizens Advice letter templates service.
5. Support & Wellbeing
If you answered 'NO' to any question in this section:
- Build your support network
Join local groups, community centres, or online forums. Mind support groups advice help you find support. - Know who to contact
If you fall behind with rent or bills, contact your housing officer, landlord, or Shelter for advice. - Asking for help
It's okay to ask for help. Practice by talking to your support worker or a trusted friend.
6. Independent Living Readiness
If you answered 'NO' to any question in this section:
- Emotional readiness
If you feel anxious or unprepared, talk to your support worker or contact Samaritans for someone to listen. - Life skills
The CAP Life Skills Group provide practical money saving techniques, such as cooking on a budget and making money go further. - Set small goals
Break tasks into steps - like making a shopping list or planning a weekly routine.
7. Employment
If you answered 'NO' to any question in this section:
- Online applications
Help and support applying for jobs online - Learn My Way. - Get ready for work
Improve your chances of getting a job - Job Help government support website.