A NEW helpline has been launched for those affected by changes to the welfare system.
The Welfare Changes Helpline is designed to advise people on changes to disability benefits, employment and support allowance, housing benefits and the social fund.
It is run by the Welfare Reform Advice Services Consortium which is made up of various community advice services, such as the Citizen’s Advice Bureau and the Law Centre, whose job it is to aid the public with government outreach programs and related issues.
In addition to the helpline, 35 advisors will be available across 11 council areas to provide face-to-face consultations in Citizen’s Advice Bureau and Advice NI offices.
Speaking on behalf of the consortium, Bob Stronge, chief executive of Advice NI, said many families across the north could benefit from the new helpline.
“We are, of course aware that the most vulnerable may be the hardest to reach, including those with, for example, mental health problems or transient lifestyles.
“All of these groups will, however, be in contact with, for example, those managing hostels, community psychiatric nurses, Sure Start staff or members of their local church.”
Anyone seeking advice about changes to the welfare system can contact the helpline on 0808 802 0020 from 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday.
