We are now able to offer face-to-face appointments

We are now able to offer face-to-face appointments

Posted: Wed, 21 Apr 2021 13:07

PRESS RELEASE 199h April 2021

Citizens Advice Charnwood - now able to offer face to face appointments for those who need them

Chief Officer Ian Dennis said: 'With the help of our volunteers we have continued to provide advice and support by telephone and email throughout the pandemic. But some people find this difficult. For example, filling in lengthy and complicated forms when applying for disability payments. We are therefore delighted that we can now resume face to face appointments as well as our ongoing telephone advice service.'

Since the first lock down Citizens Advice Charnwood has helped over 300 people, with applications and appeals relating to disability payments, including Personal Independence Payments (PIP) and Attendance Allowance. Most help has been provided over the phone.

Volunteer Gill said:

"People can find it difficult to put down in words how their health problems affect their daily lives and may be unable to fill in forms by themselves. Many are struggling to cope with both physical and mental health problems and are in danger of not applying for or renewing their claim and losing the money they rely on".

For example:

Wendy cares for her adult daughter, Emma, who has cognitive difficulties and depression following a head injury. Emma gets the enhanced rate of PIP. But Wendy's own mental health has gone downhill during the pandemic so when she received a review form to complete on Emma's behalf, she felt unable to cope. The country was in lockdown and Wendy was terrified that Emma would lose her PIP award and she would lose her Carers Allowance as a result. She eventually called our Local Enquiry line and got a phone appointment with an adviser who went through each section of the form with her. The adviser was able to record Wendy's responses and type them up and post them to her so she could send off the review form. But it would have been much easier with a face-to-face appointment.

If you need help and wish to make an appointment contact Citizens Advice Charnwood on 01509 649605, Mondays and Thursdays 9.30 am – 3.00pm, Tuesday 9.30am – 12 noon, or visit the website. Information and advice can also be found on the website: www.charnwoodcab.org.uk

*Since the first lock down, Citizens Advice Charnwood has helped 200 people with PIP applications, renewals and appeals

Tags: Covid-19, PIP, advice, appointments, disability benefits, help