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Financial exclusion is one of the single biggest causes of poverty and deprivation in the UK. Research has revealed that three million people borrow at 164% APR, of whom 70% rent their homes from a social landlord. Given the rise in mortgage repossessions and the current economic climate, Community Housing Cymru, the membership body for housing associations and community mutuals in Wales, is delighted to announce the appointment of Clare Williams as Financial Inclusion Officer for the sector.
Clare previously worked with Shelter Cymru within the Homelessness prevention team, defending mortgage possession proceedings in the County Court. During this time she was also called upon to represent social housing tenants.
While working for Shelter she was also contracted to Hafod Housing Association on a short-term basis where she assisted with their Financial Inclusion activities.
A survey undertaken by Community Housing Cymru in 2006 showed that 76% of housing associations are involved in multi-agency projects aimed at increasing financial inclusion , but much more needs to be done. Clare will play a pivotal role working with members, credit unions and other financial institutions and advice agencies in Wales.
Clare commented: Since training as a debt adviser, I've seen a general shift away from the views that all debt is bad and that people who are on low incomes should not be allowed to get credit or have financial products. It is now more widely accepted that most people will need some form of credit at some point in their lives. I hope to make credit and other financial products more accessible in the future to those who are presently financially excluded and work with housing associations on promoting financial capability for their tenants.
Amanda Oliver, Policy and Research Manager at CHC said: We are delighted to welcome Clare to the team. Financial exclusion has been strongly correlated with social disadvantage and there is much that housing associations can do to support financial inclusion amongst tenants. Clare will be working closely with our members, the Welsh Assembly Government and other stakeholders and assisting those at risk of repossession given the current economic environment.
Claire can be contacted on 02920 557418 or by emailing clare-williams@chcymru.org.uk
