Through the Hardship Scheme, we offer non-repayable, one-off payments credited directly to your rent account at the end of the quarter in which you apply, subject to eligibility.  

Last year, our team supported 649 households through this scheme, helping tenants manage arrears and continue living securely in their homes. 

Please note that this scheme is specifically intended to support rent arrears. It does not cover other essential bills, general household costs, or priority debts.  

If you require help with these, we encourage you to contact the Income Management Team, who can offer advice and refer you to other sources of support, such as the Cash Wise Team. 

Eligibility Criteria 

Each application to the Hardship Scheme is assessed on a case-by-case basis. To be considered, you will need to provide evidence of: 

  • All household income (e.g. wages, benefits, pensions) 

  • All outstanding debts not owed to Vico Homes 

  • Any current savings 

  • Full income and expenditure details for the home 

You can demonstrate this by submitting recent bank statements clearly showing income (such as wages or Child Benefit payments) and any payments made to creditors. 

If your application is approved, we will aim to make an award at the end of each quarter, however funding is limited so we would encourage early applications. 

Please be aware that not all applications are successful. Continuing to meet the criteria, which we’ll discuss during your application, will help to give you the best chance.

The Hardship Scheme is intended to improve the financial circumstances of our customers and ensure they have every opportunity to sustain their tenancies. 

Hardship Scheme Application Form

If you need further assistance or would like help with your application, please contact the Income Management Team on 01977 724464, text 07908 663472, email your details to [email protected] or simply complete this form. 

Struggling financially can take a toll on your mental health, we’re here to help you look after your wellbeing too.  

Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or unsure where to turn, we can refer you to our Health and Wellbeing team to help you feel more in control. 

Please visit our mental health and wellbeing support page and fill in the the form and we'll be in touch. 

What is the Hardship Scheme

The Hardship Grant is intended to improve the financial circumstances of our customers and ensure they have every opportunity to sustain their tenancies. 

It is a lump sum payment awarded to successful applicants, paid directly onto a rent account. 

Do I have to pay it back?

No, this is a non-repayable payment directly into your Vico Homes account. 

How much money is awarded?

The amount of funding depends on each applicant’s circumstances up to a maximum of £2500. 

How do I apply?

If you need help gathering documents or completing your application, please contact our Income Management Team. We’re here to guide you through the process. 

To apply please fill in the form on this page or contact the Income Management Team on 01977 724464 or email [email protected]. 

How long does it take to hear back after I apply?

Once the application has been processed, they are reviewed for payment at the end of each quarter. As funding is limited, there is no guarantee an award will be made. Successful applications are usually paid around July, October, December and March.

I’ve got some more questions; how can I speak to someone?

Contact the Income Management Team on 01977 724464 or on email [email protected] and we’ll be happy to help. 

85%

of our customers surveyed reported a positive impact on their overall mental health.

95%

of our surveyed customers reported a positive impact on their stress and anxiety.

What our customers say!