Good News for Universal Credit Claimants
There’s some good news for Universal Credit claimants this month as the amount of money that can be taken from their claims to repay debts is being reduced. Steven, our Money Advice Officer, explains what this means and why it’s a positive for claimants. What can be deducted? There’s lots of debts that can be […]
Pension Awareness Day
15 September 2019 is Pension Awareness Day, a national campaign to highlight the growing problem that many people are not saving enough for their retirement and risk facing pension poverty in later life. Our Money Advice Officer is here to help Warrington residents understand their rights and the advantages of saving for retirement, and to […]
How our WHA team is supporting tenants in the everchanging world of benefits
Housing associations have their part to play in helping tenants negotiate the complex world of benefits and to stem the tide of rising rent arrears. The impact of the hugely controversial Universal Credit – and particularly its housing element – has been highlighted many times since its introduction six years ago. Housing benefit that was […]
Universal Credit SDP Refunds – Act Now!
Details have finally been published about refunds due to claimants who have moved to Universal Credit and lost their Severe Disability Premium (SDP). Steven, our Money Advice Officer, explains what this means and how to make sure you get what you’re due. What is the SDP? The SDP was an extra amount paid to disabled […]
WARNING: Universal Credit Scam
To help Warrington residents stay one step ahead, WHA Money Advice Officer, Steven, warns of a recent scam targeting benefit claimants. How does the scam work? Scammers have been posing as government officials to offer loans to benefit claimants to persuade into sharing their personal details. A claim for Universal Credit is then made in […]
Money Matters – Bob and Doris’ Story
We were referred to Steven for a benefits check after using the services of Warrington Home Information & Improvement Agency for advice about a number of minor repairs to our home. Steven came to our house and looked at our income to see if there was anything else we could claim. He realised that Doris […]
Mental Health Awareness Week
In honour of Mental Health Awareness Week our Money Advice Officer, Steven, explains how money, debt and mental health are linked – and what you can do to turn things around. Debt can affect mental health, and mental health can lead to more debt. This can cause a downward spiral and you can easily feel […]
Coeliac Awareness Week
13th – 19th May 2019 is Coeliac awareness week and to mark this event, Steven – our Money Advice Officer – tells his story of how undiagnosed Coeliac Disease can have devastating consequences. “I’ll never forget the moment I found out my dad had cancer. It was a Tuesday evening and I was alone in […]
Money Matters – Ms Heseltine’s Story
I contacted Steven after I received a letter about a Housing Benefit take-up campaign. I’ve never claimed any benefits and didn’t know what I might be entitled to. I was struggling to keep on top of all my bills. Steven came to visit me, explained about my entitlements and helped me make a claim. I’m […]
Welfare Change Warning – Mixed Age Couples
A change to the welfare benefits system beginning 15 May 2019 will leave some pension-age benefit claimants significantly worse off. Steven, our Money Advice Officer, explains how this change will work in practice and what you can do to avoid being affected. What’s changing? After 15 May 2019, pensioners won’t be able to make a […]