Date: 22/01/2009
High Peak Borough Council is providing support for residents affected by, or worried about, redundancy and loss of income.
Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit are means-tested benefits administered by the Council, on behalf of the Department of Works and Pensions. They provide financial help for people with low incomes to pay rent and council tax. Housing Benefit is specifically for people in rented accommodation. Council Tax Benefit is payable to eligible tenants and homeowners.
People on low incomes who think that they may be entitled to Housing Benefit and or Council Tax Benefit, can ring the Benefits Service on 0845 129 77 77 or 01298 28400 for advice. Alternatively, you can use the Council's online calculator to check potential entitlement at http://highpeak.teamnetsol.com/index.jsp .
Revenues staff are also available at the Council's receptions to discuss payment arrangements with people who are having difficulty in paying their monthly council tax payments.
The Benefits Service, who work in close liaison with Jobcentre Plus and the Citizens Advice Bureau, can also give written information to newly unemployed customers.
Emily Thrane, Executive Councillor for Corporate Services, said: "High Peak Borough Council wants to provide support for residents who may have been affected by the current economic difficulties. If you think that you may be entitled to Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit, then please contact the Benefits Service."
People looking for work can visit www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk or they can call 0845 6060 234 to speak to an adviser between 8am and 6pm, Monday to Friday, or between 9 am and 1 pm on Saturdays.
To claim Jobseeker's allowance they should call 0800 055 6688 between 8 am and 6 pm Monday to Friday.
The Citizens Advice Bureau can be contacted on 01298 214550.