Local charity helps almost 2,000 people with Universal Credit

The local branch of Citizens Advice has helped almost 2,000 people with issues surrounding Universal Credit during the coronavirus pandemic, according to a latest report. 

Universal Credit has been a lifeline for millions of people across the country since the pandemic began. 

In their latest Coronavirus Impact Report, Citizens Advice Derbyshire Districts - which covers the High Peak and Glossopdale - say their frontline advisers have helped some 1,812 clients with 7,583 issues around Universal Credit, assisting with claims up to £3,020,657. 

Of those issues, 41 per cent have been helping with an initial Universal Credit claim. 

The charity urges anyone thinking of claiming benefits for the first time to get in touch with them for a full benefit check before applying, while their Help to Claim Advisers can also guide them through the entire process. 

Citizens Advice Derbyshire Districts is a local charity that provides free, independent, confidential and impartial advice to people living throughout the High Peak. 

They give advice on a range of issues such as housing [renting and home ownership], debts, benefits, unemployment, dealing with redundancy, family and relationships, healthcare Issues, and consumer problems.

You can call their Adviceline on 0300 456 8390. Lines are open Monday to Friday from 9am to 4pm.