Financial Fitness

Published 18 Sep 2009 09:00

It was interesting to note that recently released Department of Work and Pensions figures showed that up to £10.5 billion worth of means-tested benefits went unclaimed last year.

In a time when most people are feeling the effects of the ongoing financial crisis it is perhaps more important than ever that individuals and families are aware of their own particular benefit entitlements. Over the next few months, Financial Fitness, Inverclyde's independent welfare benefit and money advice charity, will be highlighting some of the benefits that Inverclyde residents from all backgrounds can claim, through this fortnightly column.

The range of benefits and Tax Credits available are wide although complex rules and daunting claim forms put many people off. Pregnant women and young families for example often miss out on vital support ranging from free prescriptions, fruit and vegetables to maternity grants, Tax Credits and help with childcare costs. In addition to this, many families could also be entitled to help with their Rent or Council Tax liabilities too.

As many parents will confirm, the first few years of bringing up a child is a very rewarding yet challenging experience. Quite often, new parents are simply too busy/tired to think seriously about claiming any financial support they are due. However, as the average cost of bringing up a child from birth to 18 is £43,000 (and rising), parents really can't afford not to claim their rightful entitlement.

At Financial Fitness we work closely with a range of organisations that we can put people in touch with if they need extra help. For example, we have a close relationship with the Special Needs In Pregnancy Service (SNIPS) based in the Community Midwifery Unit of Inverclyde Hospital, who provide practical support and advice to vulnerable mums-to-be to help them cope with their pregnancy and beyond. We can also access other services for families who have extra support needs or disabilities too.

Financial Fitness have a team of Advisers with over 80 years of welfare benefit experience between them. For free, independent advice on all welfare benefits or to simply find out more about benefits that you be entitled to, call us on 01475 729239 or e-mail finfitteam@yahoo.co.uk

Finally, over the next few months we will be focussing on other types of financial support including benefits for older people, simple ways to save money and extra income for disabled people and carers. We would encourage anyone within Inverclyde who needs independent welfare benefit advice to get in touch for a free, confidential appointment.

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