A partnership between housing association VIVID and Citizens Advice Rushmoor has secured more than £750,000 in debt write-offs for tenants across southern England.
Since launching in 2024, the scheme has supported 31 VIVID customers through Debt Relief Orders and bankruptcy proceedings.
A total of £757,589.73 has been written off, equivalent to an average of £24,438.38 for each customer supported.
The partnership combines VIVID’s knowledge of tenants and their housing circumstances with independent, specialist debt advice from Citizens Advice Rushmoor’s regional Debt Hub.
EARLY SUPPORT PROTECTS TENANCIES
VIVID’s Financial Inclusion team identifies customers who may need specialist assistance and refers eligible cases to the commissioned service.
Qualified advisers at the Debt Hub then assess each person’s circumstances and provide Financial Conduct Authority-authorised advice on the options available.
Where appropriate, customers receive support throughout formal debt processes intended to address liabilities they cannot realistically repay.
One customer says: “There is no way I would have been able to complete the process without the help, support and understanding I received.
“I found it easy to talk openly about my situation, and I’m incredibly grateful for all the work that went into helping me secure my Debt Relief Order.”
ESSENTIAL BILL DEBTS RISE
Citizens Advice supported more than 400,000 people with debt problems nationally during 2025, almost 45% more than in 2021.
The average amount owed by people seeking help reached £9,569, with rent, energy, council tax and other essential household bills accounting for 42% of the total.
Calum Stewart, CEO of Citizens Advice Rushmoor, says: “More than £750,000 written off is a significant milestone, but its real importance lies in the fresh start it has given to 31 people and their families.”
PARTNERSHIP RENEWED
The agreement has been renewed for 2026/27, with VIVID continuing to fund the regional Debt Hub for eligible tenants across its estate.
Paul Tewkesbury, head of operations at VIVID, says: “Money worries can affect every part of someone’s life, so getting the right support at the right time is crucial.”
Stewart adds that the model demonstrates how housing providers can invest in independent advice to tackle financial hardship, protect tenancies and achieve lasting outcomes.
