Your Questions About Benefits Answered

+++NEWS RELEASE ISSUED BY WEALDEN DISTRICT COUNCIL+++

Wealden District Council and the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) are organising a Universal Support Day on Thursday 1 November at Hailsham Civic Community Centre. The Universal Support Day is free. It runs from 10am to 3pm on Thursday 1 November and everyone is welcome, whether you receive benefits or not.

“Universal Credit is now helping new benefits claimants across Wealden.  Next year existing benefits claimants will start to move over to the new system,” said Councillor Graham Wells, Wealden Cabinet member with responsibility for Benefits. “There is a greater emphasis on managing your own finances and, where possible, increasing the hours worked. Together with the Department for Work and Pensions, we have brought together some expert people under one roof to offer advice and help at our Universal Support Day.

“If you are worried about how you are going to make ends meet next year, this is the event for you.”

Advisors from the DWP, Citizens Advice, District Council and the East Sussex Credit Union will be on hand to help. They can explain about the changes and provide tips and guidance about getting the best deal for yourself and your family.

There will be support and advice for people receiving or applying for Universal Credit. Work coaches from the Department of Work & Pensions and an Employment Disability Advisor will be available to answer your questions connected with disability support. Citizens Advice will be offering help with a range of issues and the East Sussex Credit Union has advice on managing your household finances.

Representatives from the Hailsham Foodbank and Wealden’s Energy Efficiency Officer will also be there to provide advice about how to save money on your important household bills.

Thursday 1 November is an opportunity not to be missed. For further information, please email benefits@wealden.gov.uk or telephone 01323 443500.