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£2.5 billion! That's how much older people failed to claim in benefits last year, even though they were fully entitled to it. Rugby Borough Council is taking positive steps to combat this situation and has launched a campaign to encourage the take up of Council Tax and Housing Benefits.
The benefits system needs a human face. People want to talk to real people who are adequately trained to help them access benefits, in a non-threatening and understanding way. This is what Rugby Borough Council are offering and this campaign will be targeting the community as a whole, not just pensioners.
Over the coming months, a series of surgeries will be launched throughout the Borough to promote the take up of benefits, and these will be advertised in the local press and through community groups. A fully trained member of staff will be available to help with filling in the necessary forms and to give general advice. In addition to this, residents will be encouraged to book appointments to either come to the town hall for one-to-one counselling or for a trained advisor to make a home visit.
To find out if you are entitled to Council Tax or Housing Benefit call a Benefit Advisor on (01788) 533433.
Did you know that Rugby Borough Council offers a benefits ‘face to face ’ home visiting service?
A Benefit Advisor takes time to explain the benefit process and to actually fill in the form – all of which is made much easier if the client is more relaxed in their own home. It also assures confidentiality for the client, helps to overcome reluctance to claim and helps to build trust and confidence.
As part of this service, the
home visiting team now have available a new translating telephone system..
The new telephone is brought along
to the appointment and is plugged into the home phone socket. It bears
absolutely no costs for the customer. This new translation service
will enable non english
speaking residents the oportunity to access information on the available
benefits, without the normal language barriers. This system is also
available at the Town Hall for vistors, just ask at reception.
Portfolio holder for Affordable housing, Cllr Bill Sewell said: “The
home visting team is an invaluable way to reach out to residents who
could not otherwise access information that could potentially increase
their income.
I would encourage everyone, to be aware of a housebound or vulnerable
friends and neighbours and let them know of this service, especially
at this tome
of year. ”
Call the Team to day for an appointment or more information on (01788) 533433
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