We’re here for you this winter

As the colder months set in and the cost of living continues to impact households across local communities, Ongo is stepping up its support to ensure their tenants don’t face winter alone.

From financial help and warm spaces, to mental health support and advice on keeping homes healthy, Ongo is offering a wide range of services and is encouraging anyone who’s struggling to reach out.

The Winter Warmer project has returned to The Arc in Scunthorpe and The Viking Centre in Barton upon Humber. These hubs provide free hot drinks, a welcoming place to keep warm, and opportunities to connect with others, helping people save on energy costs while staying socially connected. Free weekly hot meals and snacks are available at both centres, along with foodbank vouchers for those in need.

Ongo has partnered with organisations such as Citizens Advice North Lincolnshire to offer tailored financial guidance, including support with benefits, debt advice and accessing grants. This service helped hundreds of people gain over £1.5million in extra income between Oct 24 – Sept 25.

Additional support includes access to energy vouchers, council tax reductions, and discretionary housing payments, depending on location. Ongo’s Income team is available to help individuals navigate these options and ensure they receive all they’re entitled to.

Housing Perks, an app that gives access to exclusive discounts and cashback on essentials like groceries, fuel, clothing, and home furnishings at retailers including Sainsburys, Asda, B&M, Argos, Primark, TK Maxx and more is available.  So far over 2,000 tenants have signed up, saving over £11,600.

Ongo’s free, confidential mental health service continues to support hundreds of people across Scunthorpe and beyond. Whether someone is feeling isolated, anxious or overwhelmed, the team is there to listen and help them take steps toward feeling better.

For those looking to build confidence, gain new skills or find employment, Ongo’s Skills and Personal Development team offers free training courses, CV writing, interview preparation, job search support and access to digital devices.

Recognising that damp, mould and condensation are more common in winter, Ongo is also providing practical advice and support to help tenants keep their homes safe and healthy. From moisture reduction tips to repairs and inspections, every report is taken seriously and resolved as quickly as possible.

In the event of urgent issues, Ongo’s 24-hour emergency repair service prioritises problems such as heating loss, leaks and unsafe structures, especially during the colder months.

Kevin Hornsby, Director of Customer Services at Ongo, said:“We know this time of year can be incredibly tough for many, with the cost of living continuing to rise, colder weather setting in, Christmas just around the corner and all of life’s other pressures.

“That’s why our colleagues are going above and beyond to offer support, whether it’s a hot meal, a warm space, vouchers and grants, mental health support and more. We genuinely care, and we want people to know we’re here for them.”

Ongo is urging anyone in need not to suffer in silence. Whether it’s budgeting advice, mental health support or simply pointing someone in the right direction, help is available.

To find out more or access support, visit: http://www.ongo.co.uk/