Help with Universal Credit

Citizens Advice in West Sussex (North, South, East) has launched a new service called ‘Help to Claim’ for those who need help to apply for Universal Credit.

People will now be able to get support from the charity as they submit their Universal Credit application to get their first full payment.

Help will be tailored to each individual and is available in person, over the phone (0800 144 8 444) or via webchat.

For webchat and self-help information, such as assistance with the online applications form or providing evidence like childcare costs, visit www.advicewestsussex.org.uk and click ‘I need help’.

Assistance is also available as normal at job centres for people to receive help filling out the paperwork in person.

A recent survey by the charity found more than a third of people helped by Citizens Advice struggled to provide the evidence needed to complete their Universal Credit claim.

Universal Credit is a new benefit that combines six benefits into one, including Jobseekers Allowance and Working Tax Credits.

When fully implemented, it is estimated that around seven million people in England and Wales will be in reciept of Universal Credit. Julie Martin, chief officer of Citizens Advice in West Sussex, said: “We have now launched a new service specifically for those who need help applying for Universal Credit.

“We offer free, independent, impartial and confidential advice to people in the community every day and have developed an expertise in dealing with Universal Credit.

“We’ve seen first-hand what can happen when people struggle to make a claim and their payments are delayed. “We encourage anyone who needs help with their application to get in touch with us either in person, over the phone or over webchat.”