RotherFed helps residents ahead of benefits change

The sessions was hosted by RotherFed at Springwell Gardens Community Centre and gave people the chance to discuss whether they were likely to be affected.

Residents and organisations from across the borough attended the forum which aimed to provide information and discussion about welfare reform and its implications.

RotherFed's Manager Steve Ruffle said: “Big changes to the benefits system are just a few months away.

“April 2013 sees the introduction of the bedroom tax and the benefit cap.

“Housing Benefit, and all other out of work benefits, will be replaced by Universal Credit, with the national roll out beginning in October 2013.

“The event was geared to residents and tenants giving an introduction to what local organisations know to date about the upcoming changes, covering these areas and others, including downsizing, and giving practical advice to support tenants.

“Anyone in receipt of benefits or tax credits could be affected by the changes.”

Organisations including the Citizens Advice Bureau and Laser Credit Union were also on hand to offer support and help people better prepare.

Steve said: “One of the biggest messages coming out of the event included worries over money management with people facing decreases in benefit and tax payments, alongside a switch to monthly payments and the introduction of Direct Payments.”