BBC Radio Manchester is to run a series of programmes about the work of Irwell Valley's Financial Inclusion Service.
The programmes will be broadcast over two consecutive days on Thursday and Friday, 18th and 19th December on the stations breakfast show and will feature interviews with Emma Burke, Financial Inclusion Officer, Cath Kemmar, Deputy Managing Director, Neighbourhoods and two Irwell Valley residents who have sought money advice from the Association's Legal Services Department.
Since Irwell Valley created the Financial Inclusion post in May 2008, Emma has been working closely with Citizens Advice Bureau and local credit unions offering a wide range of practical support to residents with multiple debts - from rent and store card arrears - to anyone simply looking for money saving tips.
BBC reporter Matthew Trewern interviewed two residents on the Sale West Estates in Greater Manchester - a lone parent owing in excess of £30,000 to high street stores and with rent arrears - and a single man facing bankruptcy. They told the BBC that Irwell Valley Legal Services Team provided invaluable support and advice - including home visits - about money management and maximising their income to reduce their debts.
The BBC was also able to see first hand the work of the Sunshine Cafe on the Sale Estates - the Food Standards Agency award winning community initiative part funded by Irwell Valley, which runs a range of healthy eating and educational courses for local residents.
Cath Kemmar, who heads up the Legal Services team, emphasises it's the responsibility of the Association to ensure residents pay their rent on time and at the same time provide help and support for residents in financial difficulty.
The programmes can be heard on The Breakfast Show with Dianne Oxberry and Eamonn O'Neal between 6.00 am and 9.00 am, 18th and 19th December.
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