CITIZENS Advice Wyre Forest will get much-needed funding to help people through the process of making claims through the controversial Universal Credit when it is rolled out.

The new system combines six benefits into one, including Jobseekers Allowance and Working Tax Credits, and is currently being rolled out across the UK. It will be introduced across the whole of Wyre Forest next month.

But the extra funding for the district CAB service, which has come from the national charity, will enable advisers to help people get their first payment on time and be ready to manage it when it arrives.

This includes support to navigate the online claims process and personal budgeting advice which will be available online, over the phone and in person.

Nationally, the charity has found that many people have needed help providing evidence to complete all 10 stages of the claims process, including health conditions, housing and childcare.

In Wyre Forest, benefits is already the top issue amongst residents seeking their independent and impartial advice.

Elaine Lowe, Manager of Citizens Advice Wyre Forest, said: “Problems with benefits is the top issue for which people come to us for help.

“There have been challenges for people in areas where Universal Credit has been rolled out, such as delayed payments and a complicated application process.

“Our advisers will be here to help anyone who may need support making a claim, so they get paid on time. The extra funding will mean we can offer even more help to those who need it.”