External Funding to Support Hjaltland Tenants

Hjaltland Housing Association has been successful in two funding applications, aimed at supporting tenants who are struggling with either the cost of living or the cost of energy. The Scottish Government has again funded the Community Led Local Development project, which is administered locally by Shetland Islands Council, and will result in £30,000 being distributed to Hjaltland tenants in need.

A further bid of £45,000 to the Scottish Federation of Housing Association’s Fuel Insecurity Fund was also accepted, in acknowledgement that as a remote and rural authority, inhabitants of Shetland are at significant risk of fuel poverty.

Bryan Leask, Chief Executive of the Association added; ‘This is the third winter in which we have distributed some form of financial support to our tenants, and whilst it is regrettable that such support is required, we are grateful to be able to offer an intervention in this way. Struggling to make ends meet is a reality for many within our community and we need to remove the perceived stigma of asking for support. As a social landlord, we are here to help, that’s the day job and we would urge any tenant of the Association who is worried about their finances or struggling with their bills to reach out to us.’