Empower disadvantaged Armenians with legal advice

At CAIA, our advisory services play a crucial role in improving the quality of life for disadvantaged Armenians in London, helping them rebuild their lives with dignity. Every week, we provide vital guidance and support to those struggling to access their statutory rights—an essential yet often challenging process due to various barriers.

One recent case below highlights the transformative impact of our work. H, a service user, sought our support during a difficult time. Through our advisory service, she not only gained the help she needed but also developed a deeper understanding of CAIA’s role within the Armenian community. Grateful for the assistance she received, H has since become a CAIA member and registered as a volunteer, eager to give back to the very community that supported her.

This story reflects a broader truth—our relationship with service users extends far beyond a simple provider-user dynamic. Through our work, individuals feel a sense of belonging and ownership, strengthening the Armenian community as a whole. Volunteers, like H, play a vital role in allowing CAIA to continue supporting others in need, creating a cycle of empowerment and mutual aid.

Your donation, too, is more than just financial support. It enables us to continue our mission, meet essential costs, and, most importantly, build lasting relationships that sustain and uplift our community. With your help, we can ensure that more Armenians in London receive the support they need to thrive.

Join us—support CAIA today.

CASE STUDY

H faced severe challenges due to the unaffordability of the private rental sector, leaving her without accommodation of her own. Her deteriorating health, which caused restricted mobility, made her need for safe and stable housing even more urgent.

How We Helped:

• Advocating for Housing Needs: Through tireless advocacy, CAIA successfully secured permanent social housing for Ms. H with Ealing Council, providing her with a stable and suitable living environment tailored to her health needs.
• Rent Assistance and Council Tax Registration: We supported Ms. H in ensuring her rent was paid through Universal Credit, helping her avoid potential rent arrears. Additionally, we assisted her in registering for council tax to ensure she complied with her responsibilities and avoided future financial complications. Once her bill is calculated, CAIA will help her apply for council tax support.
• Application for Financial Support: Ms. H receives Universal Credit, which includes the Housing Element and Disabled Element, and her weekly income is estimated to be approximately £262.69. This amounts to an annual income of £13,669.88, with 5% of her income being £683.49. Given her circumstances, CAIA is assisting her with an application for the WaterSure scheme, which will cap her water bills and ease her financial burden.
• Essential Household Items: CAIA also advised Ms. H on how to receive financial help through the Local Welfare Assistance scheme for purchasing essential household items.

Outcome: Thanks to CAIA’s intervention, H moved into permanent social housing. Her rent was managed through Universal Credit, and her council tax was properly registered, with an application for council tax support underway. Additionally, CAIA is supporting her application for the WaterSure scheme to help her manage her water bills, offering her much-needed relief. She avoided rent and council tax arrears and gained a secure home, financial clarity, and stability in managing her household and health needs.

Links:

• CAIA Website