Leicestershire Cares issues Update and review of 2024

 

Over the past year Leicestershire Cares has worked in partnership with Reaching People coalition, with support from Leicester City council and UKSPF funding on the Moneywise Living project. The project has continued its mission to empower individuals and families across Leicester with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to better manage their finances, access essential support, and make sustainable choices in their day-to-day lives. 

 

Our work has remained focused on providing vital Energy and Benefits advice, reaching residents from all walks of life throughout the city. This support has proven increasingly crucial amidst rising living costs and continued uncertainty for many households. Through a community-driven and inclusive approach, we’ve worked to ensure that our services are accessible, impactful, and responsive to the needs of the people we serve. 

 

A highlight of the past year has been our return to Belgrave Library, a much loved and valued hub for local residents. Being back in this familiar space has been both a joy and a powerful reminder of the importance of face to face engagement. We've reconnected with many of the individuals and families we’ve previously supported, while also welcoming new faces eager to learn, grow, and access the help available to them. The energy, warmth, and trust within these sessions have reinforced our belief in the value of community-centred work. 

 

 

In recent months, we’ve turned our attention to wrapping up the last project cycle and reviewing the outcomes of the past year. We are proud to share that our efforts have led to significant, measurable impacts in the Leicester community: 

 

We supported 302 individuals, providing personalised support to help them better understand their energy usage, maximise their income, and access the benefits they are entitled to. 

301 households received targeted assistance, which helped to alleviate financial pressure and improve household wellbeing. 

 

We enabled 284 households to take energy efficiency measures—ranging from behavioural changes to practical home improvements, that contribute to long-term savings and reduced environmental impact. 

Our training and guidance have led 179 individuals to develop improved digital and financial skills, giving them greater independence and capability in managing everyday tasks, budgeting, and navigating online services. 

 

Perhaps most significantly, 172 individuals reported a noticeable increase in their confidence and resilience, attributing this to the support and encouragement they received through our programme. 

These figures are not merely statistics; they represent lives positively impacted, anxieties eased, and futures made a little more secure. 

 

 

As we reflect on the successes of the past year, we also look forward with renewed purpose. The ongoing challenges many individuals face such as rising energy costs, digital exclusion, and the complexities of the benefits system. However, so too is our commitment to standing alongside the people of Leicester, offering support that is compassionate, practical, and empowering. 

 

The Moneywise Living Project will continue to evolve and respond to the changing needs of our community. 

 

We are excited to deepen our impact, strengthen our partnerships, and ensure that everyone, regardless of circumstance, has the opportunity to live with dignity, confidence, and hope.We extend our heartfelt thanks to all those who have engaged with the project, supported our work, and contributed to this year’s success. Together, we are building a stronger, more resilient Leicester. 

 

More info on Moneywise living 

 

More info on our #PowerToChange approach