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While the focus is on young people, the Mendip YMCA can provide individuals and low income families a number of housing programmes. Both the homeless and individuals struggling with paying their rent and facing eviction may be able to get help from the independent charity. Several different services are available across Mendip as noted below.

YMCA schemes that assist with rent in advance or a deposit

Homeless prevention is provided to both couples as well as single people over the age of 25. The assistance is part of the YMCA Private Rented Support Scheme. It is also available for the unemployed in Mendip. So a wide range of people may be able to benefit from this service.

Applicants to it need to have referrals, and they can be obtained from Council Access Points, Elim Connect, District Council, or of course a local Citizens Advice centre. Individuals that are found qualified will get help from social workers and other staff.

The Private Rented Support Scheme will provide information and guidance on applying for housing allowances. The homeless can also get help in locating affordable and safe private accommodations. In addition, ongoing tenancy support is an option. The YMCA does want to prevent homelessness in Mendip, so this is one main reason that the ongoing advice and support services is available from the charity.

The Mendip YMCA resettlement scheme is one programme that can help people find permanent accommodation. Note that it can be hard to find an affordable flat in the Mendip area, so plan for it to take time. Also, as part of resettlement, advice will be offered on housing benefits or any schemes from not-for-profits that can help with paying the deposit. For example, there are partners that work with the YMCA on issuing bond guarantees and other forms of rental aid.

For people struggling with either their landlord, or maybe even a family member, rather the homelessness the charity will offer mediation. Social workers will try to work with the clients on addressing their housing problems in an effort to keep the person housed. Together you, the landlord, or your family member will all explore various solutions to whatever the crisis may be.

Mediation can also benefit those young people that may need to eventually call upon the council for assistance. It most cases, the Mendip housing authority will only be able to assist those that show the ability to prove their hardship or situation.

The Deposit Guarantee Scheme from Mendip YMCA is always under high demand. The assistance that is issued from this can help a homeless person, or future tenant, pay the rental deposit on the property. While no funds are issued, landlords who participate will have assurances in the form of a guarantee that the rent will be paid by the tenant and no damages will be done. So it reduces the risk and gives the landlord protection.

Clients need to be low income. They also can be homeless, receiving or are eligible for housing benefits, and meet other criteria. If not found to be eligible, then a worker may refer the person to the Mendip District Council for any schemes that may have.

Information on housing accommodations in YMCA

Future tenants can benefit from accreditation. This is a scheme that is mostly available for young people, but others may benefit as well. All clients need to have resided in some form of temporary accommodation from the council in the past.

As part of the Tenancy Accreditation Scheme, participants will need to take courses and classes. One of the main ones is the Moving On session. After successful completion of the programme, the young person will be given a certificate. Many landlords from the Mendip area that operate social housing will use the certificate as a form of documentation that will show the applicant will be a solid tenant.

The YMCA also provides some limited emergency accommodations to the homeless under the age of 25. The shelter will only be available for a few days, and the capacity is limited. For those that are not qualified, or if there is no room, then other options are the Mendip District Council or a local hostel.

Supported housing is also for many young people from Mendip. There are several different projects that may be available, though space is limited. This accommodation will provide the client with time to gain independence. During the stay, specialists from the Mendip YMCA will work with the tenant on employment or other matters.

For any type of housing problem, ask the YMCA for help early in the process. Whether you are falling behind on your rent or have a dispute with the landlord, the earlier someone asks for assistance the better. This will ensure there is time to explore all possible solutions to preventing the eviction. Or, if better, the social worker can offer resettlement schemes referenced above to the individual.

For more information on housing services, call 01749 674773. Appointments or referrals may be needed in most cases. The main office is at the Old Glasshouse, South Street, Wells, Somerset.