Outcomes from our cost of living survey

The survey was sent to understand how the increasing cost of living is impacting our customers' ability to afford rising bills or other payments. 

Our top priority remains the same: supporting our customers, and the feedback given has provided us with important insights that we’ll use to focus on our cost of living support this year. 

What were the results from the survey?

4,868 customers responded to the survey, letting us know how increasing costs were impacting them. This is our largest response to date. Here’s what we found:

• One in two of our rental customers across our geography reported that they’ve gone without food or heat in the last six months.
• Many customers working additional hours or working rather than retiring, in order to pay bills.
• 71% of customers had used at least one alternative method of financial support in the last six months.
• 67% of shared owners worry about meeting monthly expenses.

What is Abri doing about it? 

We’re continuously monitoring the situation and following the survey, we are:

• Working with our Resident Scrutiny Group to understand how to best utilise local food banks and referrals.
• Using what you told us to refresh our approach to the cost of living in 2024.
• Using your responses to understand which customers are most in need of tenancy support.
• Contacting customers that asked to speak to us about their rent and/or housing payments.

For immediate support, we have many measures in place.

If you’re struggling to pay your rent, please give us a call as soon as possible, on 0300 123 1567, to discuss your situation and how we can help.

We have an online hub dedicated to the cost of living. The site shares guidance on how to save on energy bills, access financial support and specific information for Abri customers on what to do if they’re struggling.

Our benefits and budgeting calculator is another quick and easy way to check you are receiving all you are eligible for. This includes benefits entitlement as well as other ways to save money like reduced broadband packages, travel discounts and free school meals. For further support, you can self-refer to our experts at Abri by pressing “submit to adviser” and giving us a call.

We also offer free employment support which can help you with everything from writing a CV to interview preparation, and advice on how to access training or apprenticeships.  Whether you’ve been out of work for a while and are looking to build up your confidence, or are thinking about a career change, our friendly team can support you in achieving your goals. You can contact the team directly using this form on the cost-of-living hub website or by emailing ESDepartment@abri.co.uk. 

If you’re struggling to pay bills, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We have specialist teams who can give you information, advice and support on maximising your income, budgeting and other tenancy related issues. Call us on 0300 123 1567, and visit this page for more information on how we can support you.

Reinvesting in our customers and communities

Abri is a not-for-profit organisation. This means that we don’t make a profit from your rent payments. We use your rent to invest in the things that you and our other customers have told us are most important. This includes delivering and improving our services, maintaining your home and building new homes to create communities where people can grow and thrive.