We want our communities to thrive. We support customers by helping them run activities to improve facilities and community spirit on estates. We also help customers overcome barriers by providing expert support.

Tenancy support
Financial inclusion
Tackling worklessness
Family support

Tenancy support

Sometimes customers need a little bit of extra help. We work with these local experts:

• Julian Support for those with mental health difficulties
• Stonham, Cara and Family Mosaic for tenancy support
• Leeway for victims of domestic violence
• Mencap for those with learning difficulties.

Neighbourhood officers make referrals to housing support agencies when a need is identified. They offer tenancy support free of charge where this service is available.

Financial inclusion

We help customers manage their money effectively and independently by:

• Working in partnership with local credit unions to promote responsible saving and provide access to affordable borrowing
• Providing financial training at our offices in Bowthorpe Hall
• Recommending specialist advice services
• Checking that our customers receive the correct benefits
• Offering affordable loans.

Tackling worklessness

We help our unemployed customers get back into work. We do this by:

• Organising regular 'Money, Employment and Learning Fairs' where customers meet prospective employers and learn about volunteering and training opportunities
• Offering volunteering opportunities in our luncheon clubs
• Working with contractors to create apprenticeships for young people.
• Running short placements for people who express an interest working in social housing
• Running training courses for our customers in areas like IT, administration, arts and crafts. Our decorating courses provide opportunities for structured training and practical experience.
• Leading the 'Changing Lives, Strengthening Communities' partnership which is tackling issues such as: money, employment, learning and health and well-being.

Find out more

Get in touch at office@cotman-housing.org.uk if you have an idea for a course, would like to volunteer at our luncheon clubs or need any further information.

Family support

We help families throughout Norfolk. We do this through the European Social Fund Families Programme. It's a free service that helps families by providing:

• Improved child care
• Job planning and training
• Debt support
• Support with health issues
• Help and support through a dedicated family advisor.

Find out more   

E: economic.development@placesforpeople.co.uk