| Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Financial Inclusion and Assessment Team (FIAT) have assisted residents of our region to claim just over £8 million in financial gains in 2015/16. This is the highest in year figure since the team was formed in 2001.
This money helps disabled and elderly residents live an independent life and assists our Council in delivering its promise of protecting our most vulnerable people in the region. The £8 million is made up mainly of pensioner and disability benefits;
Our Council’s FIAT has highly trained benefit maximisation officers available to our customers get what’s rightfully theirs. We give advice and information on all benefits and entitlements, help with all the paperwork associated with claiming benefits and talk over any queries people may have in relation to claiming benefits. Staff will also carry out a benefit health check. If there is an entitlement to any benefit then our dedicated team will assist in the completion of the relevant forms.
Chairman of the Council’s Policy and Resources Committee, Council Leader Ronnie Nicholson praised the team for their efforts in reaching the £8m milestone. He said;
“Protecting our most vulnerable people and tackling poverty are two key drivers for Dumfries and Galloway Council. The effort of the Financial Inclusion and Assessment Team in providing a top class service to our residents allows us to fulfil our promises in relation to these priorities. Our Council agreed the region’s first ever Anti-Poverty Strategy last year. Along with the unprecedented support we provide to get people into work, helping those who can’t work get what they’re entitled to from the Government is a crucial part of that strategy and our drive to reduce poverty in the region. The vast majority of people assisted are either disabled or older and ensuring they can access these benefits really is crucial to their quality of life. I would like to record my thanks to the Team for their continued dedication. The work they do really does make a difference to the lives of thousands of people across Dumfries and Galloway.”
If you require more information on this service or wish to make a referral please telephone the FIAT on 030 33 33 3008.
Picture attached of the Financial Inclusion and Assessment Team with Council Leader Ronnie Nicholson |
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