“Hardship and mental stress face many South Ayrshire families holding on to tenancies”
Ayr Housing Aid Centre held their AGM on the 15th July 2020 which covered 2018/2019.
The Centre is based in South Ayrshire and provides Free independent Housing Information, Advice, Advocacy and Engagement Services and has been operational for over 30 years. The Centre works across all housing sectors, public, private rented and owner occupied.
John Mulholland, CEO presented a detailed report on a wide range of issues relating to the Services the Centre provides. In the year the Centre opened 1,300 cases, since 2012 provided sessions on housing and homelessness to 5,693 secondary school pupils and engaged with a wide range of groups within communities and partners across South Ayrshire. In 322 cases the Centre directly prevented homeless which benefitted Service Users on a number of levels.
John highlighted growing evidence and concerns regarding poor mental health and hardship for many who access the services provided. He said “We have seen number of service expressing they have mental health issues grow year on year with 50% cases opened in this report year stating they have many health issues. He expected these number are likely to remain high in 2019/2020 as the short, medium and long term impact of the Covid 19 lockdown develops. It is clear that homeless and housing pressures impact on mental health and wellbeing of individuals and families.
It is vital that people in need are aware of the help the Centre can provide and that partner agencies refer people at the earliest possible stage. In doing so there is increased potential for positive outcomes and reduce the potential of these problems becoming overwhelming.” The Centre can be contacted by phone on 07745 798 226 or email at info@ayrhousingaidcentre.com or go to our website.
The Centre greatly values the input of Service Users, some comments:
“Helped me think about my options after I leave care”
“Always went above and beyond to help me”
“I appreciate everything this Organisation does for people. Amazing. Thank you”
“They are knowledgeable, professional and caring. Great Service – amazing people”
Alex Anderson, Chairperson highlighted to the audience the Centre services are free and independent providing high quality services which are accredited and inspected. He commended John, staff and the voluntary Management Committee for all of their commitment over the past year.
The detailed Annual Report and other Reports are on the Centre’s website at www.ayrhousingaidcentre.com/reports. For further information please contact John Mulholland CEO or Suzanne Slavin, Services Manager by email on info@ayrhousingaidcentre.com or by phone 07745 798 226