by Wickhambrook Parish Clerk
A phoneline has gone live as of 1 October to help people across Suffolk access information or support relating to debt, benefits, housing or employment.
This support service is in response to the financial impact that Covid-19 has had, and continues to have, on people across Suffolk. It is estimated that the number of people claiming Universal Credit in Suffolk has increased by 75% (approx. 24,000) since March and there has been a 238% increase in the amount of food handed out to single adults and families from Suffolk’s foodbanks. There are also 104,000 people still furloughed from their jobs.
Citizens Advice Suffolk Alliance, which includes the eight Citizens Advice Bureaus across Suffolk, and Anglia Care Trust and Ipswich Housing Action Group will deliver advice and support to people through a single phoneline. Call handlers will use resources and information from across many Suffolk organisations and specialist providers, which can be tailored to individual needs.
The phoneline is funded by Suffolk Public Sector Leaders and has been developed by Suffolk-wide partners on the Collaborative Communities Covid-19 Board, which is part of the Suffolk Resilience Forum.
The phoneline, 0800 068 3131, is open from 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday.
For more information click here