News: June 2008 Archives

The Citizens Advice Bureau charity is the largest UK provider of free, independent, and confidential advice on a wide range of advice from benefits, debt, relationship, family to housing, homelessness, and employment and immigration issues.

The Sleaford and district Citizens Advice Bureau has recently been awarded finance for a three year project from the Lincolnshire Primary Care Trust to work in partnership with Lincolnshire County Council and other Lincolnshire wide Citizen Advice Bureaus for a three year project. The aim of the project is to try and ensure that the vulnerable and most disadvantaged members of our community are aware of the types of benefits that may be appropriate for them to claim and to assist them with the often complex process of applying for those benefits, therefore maximizing income.

The cost of living keeps going up all the time making it harder particularly for older people to make ends meet. Over ₤4.6 billion in benefits go unclaimed by older and disabled people.

It is important to claim everything that you are owed. Extra money will be a great help when it comes to paying household bills and other essentials like food, heating, taxis, petrol, home repairs, equipment, gardening, cleaning and care services where necessary.

Citizens Advice is hoping to work closely with healthcare professionals, particularly GP surgeries to promote this service.

If you think you may be eligible for additional benefits or if you are a carer for an elderly or disabled person or know of someone that may like some benefits advice contact;

Diane White
Welfare Benefits Caseworker
Tel 01529 308422 (Monday to Thursday)

Or pop in to New Children's Centre Billinghay in the grounds of Lafford School
General drop in advice sessions from 09-30 to Midday every Wednesday
(Except Third Wednesday in month)
Home visits can be arranged if necessary.

ICAS stands for The Independent Complaints Advocacy Service. We can help if you feel you have not had the service you expect from the NHS and want to complain. ICAS is a free, independent and confidential service.

Making a formal complaint can be a daunting experience. ICAS can provide complainants with information and support and assistance from an advocate to guide them through the NHS Complaints procedure.

If you feel you would like some support through the NHS complaints procedure then please contact us on 0845 650 0088.

Alternatively ICAS in Lincoln are having a coffee morning on Thursday 17th July 2008 from 10:30 to 1:30. It is to be held at the ICAS office - Unit 14, Evans Business Centre, Gateway Park, Roman way, Lincoln LN6 9UH. Why not drop in to meet the ICAS staff and find out how we can help you.