Welfare team there to give tenants support in their own homes

Independent living - that's the aim of a new service which is providing council tenants with the support they need in their own homes. "We deal with a variety of different client problems," said Seanne Callan, who manages the council's Welfare Support Team.

"We help people with mental or physical health issues, alcohol or drug problems, young people, the elderly, providing a range of low-level support." This includes helping them to maximise their benefits, confidence building, home making, advocacy, accessing community groups, training and education. "We might get referrals from estate offices, housing support, benefit, health and social services," said Seanne.

"People might come to us, for example, if they are struggling with rent arrears. If they are in the process of looking for accommodation, we can also provide pre-tenancy support.

The service was set up in March 2003 and its team of 19 support officers now work with around 300 clients, who receive support for between six months and two years.

"We take them through an assessment process in their own homes and then, if necessary, work in partnership with other agencies, such as Social Services to provide the support they need."

Michael Bray is one tenant who has benefited from the Service's support. Registered blind, he was having problems with rent arrears and debts before a support officer set up a direct debit for him. Seanne added: "It's a very different kind of service for council housing providers. We help people to be independent, to achieve their aspirations and have a better quality of life."