Links to Local Help:
The Disability Resource Centre provides a benefits advice service that is confidential, independent and free. This service provides up-to-date information and advice to people of any age and with any disability, older people, their families, carers, friends and associated professionals throughout Bedfordshire and Luton. You can also make appointments with the expert benefits advisors who can give more specific advice such as benefit checks and help with form filling e.g. Personal Independence Payments, Attendance Allowance.
Age UK Bedfordshire is based in Bromham Road, Bedford and has a trained team of staff and volunteers who can give independent advice on many topics for older people in Central Bedfordshire. Age UK also have a money matters page on their main website which includes information on benefits and more.
Central Bedfordshire Council can give you advice on Housing Benefits to help with your rent payments and Council Tax Support to help with your Council Tax payments.
Housing Benefit Support previously known as Bromford Support, this service has transitioned over to Central Bedfordshire Council and aims to support people who either have little or no experience of living independently, a history of homelessness or experiencing tenancy breakdown.
Grand Union Housing Group – Benefits And Money Action Team aims to improve the way in which people manage their money as well as their other financial needs in life.
BPHA money advisers can offer advice to all residents, shared owners and leaseholders. They can help to identify other benefits you might be entitled to, and give you tips on how to maximise your income.
Links to Online Tools & Useful Websites:
Advice Guide Benefits Info – Compiled by the Citizens Advice Bureau.
Benefits Calculator – Find out what benefits you are entitled to.
Benefits for the over 50s– Find out about benefits in older age.
Benefits for those with disabilities – Info from the GOV.UK website about benefits if you have a disability.
GOV.UK is a government website providing information on benefits and how to claim.
Turn2Us providing information about welfare benefits and tax credits and how you can work out which ones you might be entitled to.
HM Revenue & Customs is a government website providing information on tax credits, child benefit, income tax, national insurance, self-assessment, coming to the UK, pensioners and information for the self-employed.
Veterans’ Gateway The Veteran’s Gateway puts veterans and their families in touch with the organisations best placed to help with the information, advice and support they need – from healthcare and housing to employability, finances, personal relationships and more.
Shelter Provides advice on housing, welfare benefits and debt.