Welfare Benefits Service

The Carers Centre has a specially trained team of Income Maximisation Officers who can help you as a Carer and the person you care for maximise your income by ensuring you are claiming the correct benefits you are entitled to and to navigate the complex world of benefits.   We would always recommend you have a full benefits check with one of our staff.  Below you will find some self-help guides, factsheets and some Frequently Asked Questions.

Benefit Factsheets: Keeping it to the point

Self-Help guides: Check out our handy guides to help with form completion

Frequently Asked Questions Of Our Benefits Team:

  • I have a high income and savings in the bank. Is it worth me having a benefit check?

    Yes, not all benefits are means tested.

  • I have tried to claim benefits in the past but never been entitled. Is it a waste of time trying again?

    No, your circumstances may have changed and over the years benefits change so we recommend regular benefit checks to ensure you are not missing out.

  • I am registered with you as a Carer but need benefit advice for the person I care for – is this ok?

    Absolutely! By helping the person you care for, we are helping you so contact us

  • If I am eligible for a benefit, will you help me with form filling?

    Yes, of course – we aim to help you through the whole process of benefit claims, including  form filling

  • I have recently been awarded a benefit but Im not sure what to do next, or if the benefit is correct – would you help me with this?

    Yes we certainly will. We check your awards are correct and advise on what to do (if anything) if a benefit has been awarded. 

  • I currently claim benefits and have had a recent change in my circumstances- can you help me with this?

    Yes, we will help with change in circumstances, including writing letters on your behalf, filling out relevant forms and explaining the whole process to you.

  • Some agencies only help with some welfare benefits – what do you help with?

    Them all! We will advise around all welfare benefits and tax credits and support you around the whole process along the way.

  • Do you help with appeals for benefits such as Housing Benefit and Pension Credit?

    We can help with mandatory reconsideration and appeals for benefits where there is an error of law so yes can help to get a decision changed in many benefits, where it is incorrect.

  • Do you help with mandatory reconsideration and appeals for disability benefits such as PIP and AA?

    We can advise you around the process but unfortunately cannot submit a request for you, unless there are extenuating circumstances. What we aim to do is get it right the first time and will help you with your initial application. Our success rate is over 95%!

  • I have a disability benefit form I need help with but am not sure I am entitled. Can you just complete it?

    We will carry out an eligibility check. Using our vast experience and extensive training we will be able to advise if you may be eligible. If we are confident you do not meet the eligibility criteria, we would not complete the form.