This blog was kindly written by Financial Wellbeing Officer Leigh Nelson.
‘I have a wealth of experience in the Welfare Benefits sector, having worked as a Generalist Adviser for Citizens Advice before transitioning to a Welfare Benefits Caseworker role for Macmillan Cancer Support, in partnership with Citizens Advice, where I worked for 20 years. I visited cancer patients in their own homes to give advice. I am deeply passionate about ensuring that people receive the advice and support they are entitled to, and more importantly, as the Welfare Benefits system can be a complex area, I want to ensure that it is communicated clearly and understood by those we see.
In the media, we often hear about people “claiming” benefits, but what’s less commonly discussed is the significant amount of benefit income that remains unclaimed. It’s estimated that across Great Britain, £22.7 billion in income-related benefits goes unclaimed every year. Yes, that’s billion with a “B.”
Barriers to unclaimed Benefits:
- Lack of Awareness: Many individuals are simply unaware of the benefits they are eligible for, or how to go about claiming them. Some people think because they have savings that they wouldn’t be entitled to benefits when this is always the case.
- Complexity: The benefits system can be dauntingly complex and difficult to navigate for those unfamiliar with it.
- Personal challenges: Such as language barriers, disabilities, or limited access to technology, can make the claims process even more difficult for some.
- Additionally: People living in rural areas face unique obstacles, such as poor or no internet access, long distances to travel for services, and the social stigma surrounding benefit claims in close-knit communities. This makes it even more challenging to engage with a system that is increasingly digital and complicated.
Our project, Carer Money Matters, is here to address these issues. We provide free, confidential, and non-judgmental support to those in need. We’re committed to ensuring that everyone receives or is signposted to the appropriate benefits advice that they are entitled to, with the support they need to navigate the process with confidence.’
If you would like to speak to us about benefits please contact us on 800 368 8349 or email us on admin@carersupportdorset.co.uk.
