JHC Support service
In a world where life’s demands are often complex and contradictory, our Support team offers unprecedented help to individuals and families living in and around Sawston. This service is now over 20 years old and has grown considerably, with the global pandemic challenging us once more to be fleet of foot and responsive in how we assist people in need.
Peace of mind begins when someone first rings the charity and hears a friendly voice at the end of the line. They can be certain their call will be treated in absolute confidence and their concerns addressed by an experienced, highly professional support worker.
Between them, Support team members Amanda, Debra and Donna work with over 400 people every year, often over several months. They meet clients at JHC’s offices and can sometimes arrange home visits, and in some cases will also act as advocates with other agencies.
Advice is available about benefits (including Universal Credit, PIP applications and disabilities), housing, homelessness and small debts. Every year this unique blend of consistent care and individual understanding makes a huge difference to many people’s wellbeing.
Please note our services are primarily for those who live, work or study in Sawston and its surrounding villages, they are totally free of charge and confidentiality is assured.
Since January we have seen 160 clients with the top 3 enquiries being about grants, benefits and housing.
66 per cent of our current clients are affected by a health issue.
Our food bank has provided 285 food bags to local people in need.
Local networks
JHC collaborates with a number of organisations including Cambridge Citizens’ Advice, Granta Medical Centre, South Cambridgeshire District Council, Sawston’s schools and the Village College, and the Children’s Centre; with your permission we may recommend a referral.
Cambridge Citizens’ Advice
CA’s Specialist Adviser provides help about managing money, options and solutions for assessing debt, budgeting to save on household bills, energy comparisons and switches, water tariff applications, income maximisation and advice on how to reduce your expenditure. They offer remote, or face to face appointments at a number of locations if you prefer.
You can access this service to make an appointment by phone or online; please ring CA direct on 0808 278 7808 or contact them by email via cambridgecab.org.uk You are also welcome to call JHC for more information.
South Cambridgeshire District Council
Updates about their current services can be found on the Council’s ‘South Cambridgeshire’ Facebook page or visit www.scambs.gov.uk