About this Event
Understanding Benefits: Advice, Entitlement and Wider Support
This three-hour practical awareness course provides an introduction to benefits and the wider support available to people on means-tested benefits. It is designed to help participants understand the importance of providing accurate information, recognising the limits of their knowledge, and knowing when advice should be sought.
The session is split into three key elements:
1. Advice or Information?
We will explore the important distinction between providing information and giving advice. The session will consider the potential consequences of advising someone without having a full understanding of their circumstances, and why taking the time to establish the complete picture is essential before offering guidance.
2. An Introduction to Benefits
We will take a brief look at the current UK benefits system, with a particular focus on Universal Credit for people of working age and Pension Credit for people of pension age. This section will provide an accessible overview of how these benefits work and who they are intended to support.
3. Fringe Benefits
We will explore the wider benefits and support that may be available to people receiving means-tested benefits. This will include an introduction to the additional help that can often be accessed alongside a main benefit entitlement, helping participants recognise opportunities to maximise the support available.
The course combines practical learning with discussion and aims to give participants greater confidence in identifying the right information, understanding the boundaries of their role, and signposting people towards appropriate support.
Event venue & nearby stays
Barlow house, Barlow House, Manchester, United Kingdom
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