A CHARITY that provides help and advice to Wyre Forest residents has received a welcome funding boost.

Wyre Forest Citizen’s Advice has been awarded £75,000 from the Henry Smith charity which will enable it to fund a full time caseworker.

The caseworker will manage appeals, especially those regarding disability benefits such as Personal Independence Payments and Employment Support Allowance.

Bosses from the service said the number of enquiries relating to benefits had increased by 25 per cent over the last two years.

Kate Bennett, Manager of Wyre Forest, said: “This is an important grant this money will allow us to continue with this important work for very vulnerable people.

“Our caseworker handles over 100 cases a month and also acts as a resource to help the volunteers to be as effective as they can with claims in order that the clients do not need to appeal decisions.

“The caseworker can help to prepare the case for appeal and currently 65 per cent of all appeals for disability benefits are successful.

“The funding is for three years which will enable us to establish the service. We will also be offering training and support to other disability and voluntary groups who are encouraged to get in touch.”