Keep an eye out, you’ll soon get a letter from us about updates to your weekly rent. If you’re new, this is something we do every year around this time to keep you updated.

Here’s what you’ll find in the letter and how we can help if you have any questions.

What can you expect?

We’ve reviewed weekly rents, and your new amount will start from Monday 6 April 2026.

Your letter explains the changes in full, including what you pay now (2025–26) and what your new weekly rent will be from April.

What do you need to do?

If you receive Universal Credit:

• Tell the DWP of your new rent amount as soon as possible.

If you receive Housing Benefit:

• We’ll tell the council about your new rent amount but make sure to check your claim is correct.
• If you haven’t heard back from the council about your claim update, contact them straightaway.
• If your Housing Benefit is paid directly to you (and you pay your rent to Pioneer), tell the council of your new rent amount as soon as possible.

If you pay by Direct Debit:

• No action is needed. We’ll update your payments and notify you before the amount changes.

If you pay by Standing Order:

• Update the amount with your bank as soon as possible.

What support is available?

There are a wide range of local support services available in and around Castle Vale. We’ve put them all in one guide for you, making it easier for you to access the support you need.

You can find support services and resources for help with energy, warm spaces, food, household essentials, and community activities.

You’ll find a copy of this guide with your rent letter. You can also download it from our website.

Download the guide.

Getting help if you need it

We’re here to help you stay on top of your rent.

If you experience any financial difficulties, please tell us straightaway – even if we’re not the right service, we’ll point you in the right direction.

Money Advice Service

We offer a confidential, independent Money Advice Service for all our customers. Contact us at 0121 748 8100 and we can make a referral for you.

Support at The Sanctuary

We also provide a range of services that may be able to help, such as:

• Support with getting into work from our Employment Support team
• Support from our Independent Living and Family teams

You can find out more by dropping into The Sanctuary, calling 0121 748 8111 or email contactusthesanctuary@pioneergroup.org.uk.

Community Housing Officers

Our Community Housing Officers are also here to help you access the right service, if you prefer to speak with them directly.

Find your patch officer.

You can find further information on rent and available support on our dedicated webpage.

Visit the webpage.

If you have questions about your rent letter, give our Customer 1^st team a call at 0121 748 8100 or email at contactus@pioneergroup.org.uk