Are you benefit capped and unsure what you can do about it?
Michelle Ormiston, our Housing Support Worker, works with Seaside tenants who are affected by the Benefits Cap.
There are three ways to no longer be affected by the Cap:
- returning to work, increasing hours worked or being assessed as having limited capacity to work.
- receiving a passport benefit such as PIP (Personal Independence Payment) or DLA (Disability Living Allowance).
- moving to a property with a lower rent, such as a Council property through Homemove.
Michelle often helps her clients access a Discretionary Housing Payment, food vouchers and/or a Pelican Parcel to find a bit of breathing space.
She then helps them work out their route out of the Cap. This might include:
- Understanding benefits and what they’re eligible for
- Supporting with benefit applications and working with the DWP
- CVs, job searching, job applications and preparing for interviews
- Homemove bidding.
Michelle meets tenants at the Family Hubs, in public places like the library or in their own homes.
She receives referrals from the Credit Control team and from the ‘Move on Mentors’ (MoMs) at the Council. Tenants can also get in touch directly if they are benefits capped and would like some support from Michelle.
If you are affected by the Benefits Cap, you can get in touch with Michelle by phone: 01273 732061 or by email: michelle.ormiston@seaside-homes.org.uk
