International Credit Union Day 2021
21 October 2021 is International Credit Union Day. The theme for 2021 is “Building financial health for a brighter tomorrow”. Our Money Advice Officer, Steven, explains about Credit Unions and how they can help you. What are Credit Unions? Credit Unions are financial co-operatives which provide savings, loans and other services to their members whilst being fully […]
Universal Credit Update – Self-Employed
A recent change to Universal Credit for self-employed claimants could mean their payments will reduce. Our Money Advice Officer explains what’s changing and what you can do about it. What’s the issue? In response to the Coronavirus pandemic, the Government changed the law from 30 March 2020 to give Universal Credit Work Coaches extra powers […]
Over 75 TV Licence Deadline
The deadline is fast approaching for over 75’s to either purchase a TV licence or apply for an exemption under new rules which removed the blanket exemption for this group. An additional 1-year grace period was allowed during the coronavirus pandemic, but this comes to an end on 31 July 2021. Recently published figures demonstrate that […]
Debt Relief Order Changes Approved
The Insolvency Service has been conducting a review of the criteria for who is eligible for a Debt Relief Order (DRO). The results of this review have now been released and a number of changes are set to be made from the end of June 2021. A DRO is a way of dealing with your […]
EU Settlement Scheme Deadline Approaching
Now the UK is no longer part of the European Union, anyone who has moved to the UK from an EU country needs to apply to the EU Settlement Scheme, which allows eligible people to live and work in the UK whilst keeping access to certain state benefits, pensions and free NHS treatment. The deadline […]
New scheme launched to allow ‘Breathing Space’ for people in problem debt
4th May 2021 marks the introduction of a new scheme known as Breathing Space which aims to help people who are struggling to cope with problem debt by allowing them protection from their creditors so they can get advice or mental health treatment. There are two types of breathing space: a standard breathing space and […]
Universal Credit & Double Wage Payments – A Glimmer of Hope
This time last year our Money Advice Officer wrote an article about steps you can take to prevent your Universal Credit being reduced if you are paid early at Christmas time. A recent Court of Appeal case has led to a change in the law giving new powers to the DWP to reallocate wages to […]
Money Advice Newsletter Article – Winter 2020
It’s been a difficult year for everyone and particularly tough on our finances, especially for those who have lost income or work. It’s been extremely hard to keep track of all the financial support measures and changes implemented by the Government, so we’ve tried to put everything together in one place so you can make […]
Navigating the benefits maze for mixed-aged couples
Recent changes to the welfare benefits system have created a minefield for couples nearing their retirement age, meaning they could be over £100 per week worse off if they make the wrong choices regarding which benefits to claim. To help residents understand their rights, our Money Advice Officer has put together a Q&A about how […]
CMA issues guidance to childcare providers
The Competition & Markets Authority has issued an open letter and detailed guidance to childcare providers regarding unfair practices during the coronavirus pandemic. The guidance highlights a number of areas where some childcare providers have not acted in accordance with consumer rights legislation and urges the sector to review the agreements they have with their […]
