SARH strengthens its Money Advice Team

Money adviser Keira Morton has achieved industry recognition for her skills in helping a housing association’s customers to get their finances back on track.

Keira, who works at Stafford and Rural Homes (SARH), has been awarded a Certificate in Money Advice Practice by the Institute of Money Advisers.

To achieve the highly regarded certification, she under took a 12-week Staffordshire University course before sitting a final exam to become one of just 800 advisers in the country to achieve the qualification.

Keira, who has worked in the SARH Money Advice Team since 2012, explained: “With recent welfare reforms, the problems people face are becoming increasingly complex, but with this qualification I have even more confidence that we can deliver the very best advice.

“It is really rewarding when you see people turning their life around once they have their finances under control. Money worries can have an impact on almost every aspect of their life – from mental health and diet to family relationships and employment opportunities.

“I would like to thank the management team here at SARH for supporting me through my studies, which I’m sure will help many of our customers get back on track with their finances.”

Keira is the second member of the Money Advice Team at SARH to obtain the qualification and follows in the footsteps of colleague Liz Pilley. Together they offer free, specialist, impartial advice on how SARH customers can maximise their income, save on expenditure and reduce any outstanding debts.

They are also qualified to guide people through the benefit claim process, conduct a benefit check, liaise with government, council and credit agencies on their behalf and help challenge decisions that are felt to be unfair.

Karen Armitage, SARH Chief Executive, added: “Congratulations to Keira on earning this important qualification.

“Together with Liz she is doing an excellent job at a time when money is becoming an increasing concern for so many people.”