Without a bank account, Susan’s benefits were being received and managed by a relative due to Susan's physical disabilities and poor mobility. Susan felt out of control of her own finances and not able to save. After a few months of managing her own money with us she was able to buy a second-hand electric wheelchair.
Mike had lost his bank account after going to prison. The traumatic experience had left him anxious and introverted. We were able to meet with Mike and a support worker, in a comfortable setting and open an account remotely, avoiding the stressful trip to our office. He has now found a job he enjoys, has a new relationship and is coming out of his shell.
Annie wanted to find a job but every time she was asked if she had a bank account and when she said she hadn’t, the job offer was taken off the table. With a GCS account, Annie is now in employment and her salary is coming straight to her account, with clear benefits for her physical and mental health.
Through a long life of addiction, Marco had lost all access to mainstream banking. He was sofa surfing and receiving his benefit by vouchers converted to cash, which he spent too quickly. We opened an account and spent weekly sessions with Marco helping him to budget and Marco now has a roof over his head.