feature: Reaping the benefits
5 February 2008
Many people still don't claim all the benefits they are entitled to. But an innovative project launched by Haringey Council and Haringey Citizens Advice Bureau is changing all that.
The Reaping the Benefits project was set up last year, to offer benefit checks and debt counselling to residents in three of the most deprived wards in the borough, Northumberland Park, Noel Park and Bruce Grove.
Targeting 6,000 households in the three wards, a small team of two specialist CAB advisers with more than 50 years’ experience between them has so far dealt with more than 950 enquiries and generated over £200,000 in extra benefits for residents that would otherwise have gone unclaimed.
As well as aiming to increase residents’ income, the project offers help with managing debt, dealing with lenders and landlords and finding a job, working closely with the council’s neighbourhood management teams and employment and training officers.
Haringey CAB director Markos Chrysostomou says:
“Getting out into the community through this project has been hugely successful.
“For the CAB a key principle is that advice changes lives, and that is what we are showing here. Poverty affects your health and wellbeing, and it is all too easy to get into a downward spiral.
“The sort of support we can give is a major step in helping families to access childcare and training, and plan ahead.
“The project is a real lifeline for local people, and we are now looking to continue its work.”
For the council, the project is part of an overall drive to increase incomes in the poorest parts of the borough and help people to help themselves.
To find out more about claiming Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit call the council on 0845 071 2800, drop into a council customer service centre or visit www.haringey.gov.uk/benefits
For advice on dealing with debt and benefits generally contact your local Citizens Advice Bureau. There are three CABs in Haringey, at Tottenham Town Hall, Hornsey Town Hall and Turnpike Lane. Call 0870 126 4030 for details.
The CAB online advice service is at www.adviceguide.org.uk (external link).
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