I recently have spoken to the Citizens Advice Bureau for specialist benefit advice. The benefit system can be so complicated, the language, the process, the fact you can’t speak to someone when you need to. I have worked with the CAB before and signposted people I have supported in the past for their support – but just thought I would highlight again what they can help you with if you need it.

If you visit their website you can search through a whole wealth of different information…

Benefit Advice

with links to calculators to work out of if you are eligible for certain benefits and what you might receive…or how to appeal a decision you think is wrong.

Trading Standards

have you been ripped off and don’t know your rights or who to turn to….

Housing

from starting or ending your tenancy to tenancy rights, notice periods, how to apply for social housing…

Work / Employment

your rights at work, your redundancy rights, or advice if you have you been unfairly dismissed…

Debts

get help with debt, debt solutions, budgeting advice

Health

from the latest coronavirus rules (written in a way we can understand) to how to pursue a complaint if you need to….

There are template letters ranging from if you have a problem with faulty goods to complaining to an energy company…

Not only can you find all of this on their website you can also use an on-line chat function or call directly for advice – you may be referred to your local branch or will need someone to call you back, however the service I was provided was extremely efficient. Due to Coronavirus restrictions most branches are closed – however most branches are still offering to help via the phone, email or online chat.

It is really important to stand up for yourself when either something has gone wrong, is in the processes of going wrong or you know deep down that you are being treated unfairly. To do this alone with no help can be very tough so use the Citizens Advice Bureau – it is what they are there for!!

https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/

Adviceline (England): 0800 144 8848

Advicelink (Wales): 03444 77 20 20

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You can also look at the one helpful voice directory for other places offering support and advice…