Lancaster and Morecambe residents urged to check eligibility for benefits this winter

One recent success story highlights the importance of this initiative, when expert adviser Jeni Meadows assisted a local couple in securing more than £20,000 in benefits they were entitled to but unaware of.

Steven and Rachel – names changed for privacy – care for two disabled children and were living paycheck to paycheck and struggling to make ends meet.

Now they can afford essentials and enjoy a better quality of life and a happier relationship thanks to Jeni’s effort to get them the money they were entitled to.

Steven reached out to Jeni in May regarding a dental query. During their consultation, Jeni discovered that the couple was significantly underpaid due to mismatched Disability Living Allowance and Universal Credit payments.

“We can’t thank Jeni enough,” said Rachel. “She has been absolutely fantastic and continued to fight for us even when we felt like giving up. We had no idea we were entitled to an extra £1,100 a month to help with our care needs. Now we’re feeling so much more secure.”

Jeni, who has been with Citizens Advice for 18 months, said: “I was happy to do a benefits check with them and I could see they had been considerably underpaid for several years.

"It was rewarding to see how much of a difference it made in their lives.”

Rachel added: “It has even improved our relationship! We’re not as stressed about money and can afford a new bed and sofa for the first time.

"No thank you is big enough for Jeni – she deserves more than a thank you. It has been a long road, and emotional in a good way, but credit to Jeni who is a wonderful part of the team at Citizens Advice. We’ve been telling everyone to go to them if they need advice or support.”

Gully Trevena, advice services director at Citizens Advice North Lancashire, praised Jeni’s efforts, saying: “This is an incredible outcome. Jeni's work with Steven and Rachel has had a massive impact on their lives, but there are many others like them who may not be claiming the benefits they’re entitled to.

"With changes to the Winter Fuel Payment, we are particularly urging people to check their eligibility for Pension Credit, one of the most underclaimed benefits in the UK.”

Research from Citizens Advice shows that one in four people are concerned about turning off their heating and hot water this winter.

Citizens Advice North Lancashire invites anyone unsure about their benefits eligibility to use online calculators or visit one of their offices in Lancaster or Morecambe, open Tuesday to Thursday from 10am to 2pm, for support and guidance.

Joanna Young, CEO at Citizens Advice North Lancashire, said: “There is still a stigma around claiming benefits, especially among older people. But it’s important to remember that this is money that you’re entitled to claim. Don’t miss out. Check your eligibility today.”

You can call Citizens Advice North Lancashire and leave a message on 01524 481508 or you can email: [email protected]