Universal Credit Advice & Support (360G-SCVO-a0g0N00001gBGVJQA4)

The additional funding will allow the project to continue through to 31st December 2019 and to deliver the following; 1. A dedicated worker will continue employment for 2 days per week to deliver the project 2. A weekly drop in clinic will be held in the office and two clinics per month will be held in each learning centre. The clinics will be open to anyone in East & Central Sutherland 3. It is anticipated that up to 6 people per week will be helped through two clinics and appointments in the office 4. Awareness raising through local newspaper and newsletters of welfare reform, Universal Credit and claiming benefits will reach an estimated 1000 people across East & Central Sutherland 5. Partnership working with local and national organisations 6. Referrals to workers and projects internally 7. Referrals to external organisations The project will make a difference to people financially as they will have an income sorted, they will be better informed of what Universal Credit is, how to apply, how to keep their claim up to date, they will be supported to use computers and the internet increasing their skills, they will be helped to create and update a CV if necessary, they will be referred on to specialist help for issues not directly related to Universal Credit, their situation will be looked at holistically to assess any further help or support that may be required and to identify any appropriate referrals for the client. The project will directly relate to welfare reform, combatting poverty and inequality; clients will be assisted to claim Universal Credit which will increase their income and will be supported to maintain their claim; clients will be signposted and referred for further help internally and externally to maximise their income and minimise their issues and people will be more aware of where they can access help and support in relation to poverty and welfare. The longer term impact will be that people who have used the project will increase their computer and internet skills, be more confident in filling in forms and completing claims online and more people will have maximised their income through being in contact with the project.