Unclaimed benefits worth more than £500,000 unlocked during special cost of living advice sessions

Since November, the sessions – specifically for cost of living issues – have been held in Erdington and Northfield, with 283 people assisted to maximise their income during these tough times through benefits and grants worth a combined, estimated, total of £509,919.

It means each person the council’s expert staff have been able to help could be better off to the tune of £1,801 per year, equivalent to £34 per week that they previously didn’t know they had a legitimate entitlement to.

In some cases, five-figure fees have been unlocked for people that have been supported. Those being helped are a mixture of pre-booked appointments, “walk-ins” during the sessions or people that council staff have proactively called because they have recently been in receipt of other types of support such as local welfare provision.

Cllr John Cotton, Cabinet Member for Social Justice, Community Safety and Equalities, said: “We’ve been clear since the start of the cost of living crisis that we will do everything we can to support people in need in our city.

“The amounts that are being unlocked by our knowledgeable and dedicated staff are staggering – and they are also concerning at the same time, because it shows how complicated it can be to navigate the benefits system when you need help.

“We’ll continue supporting people given this crisis is nowhere near its end through this and the other programmes and projects we have, such as our network of Warm Welcome Centres.”

Extended hours are also being offered via the council’s contact centre for those who are unable to make face-to-face meetings or prefer using the phone.

If you are experiencing immediate problems, please call 0121 303 1116. The opening hours are Monday to Friday from 9am to 7pm, and Saturday 10am to 1pm.

The council’s website also has a wide range of advice and information. To find out more, visit: www.birmingham.gov.uk/livingsupport