More and more Island residents are in need of support through the uncertainty of Covid-19. That’s why Citizens Advice Isle of Wight is continuing to offer confidential and independent advice to anyone affected by the many complex issues that have arisen as a result of the pandemic, to make sure everyone receives the help they’re entitled to.
Lizzee Annis was about to claim Universal Credit, but spoke to Citizens Advice IW first.
“Both my husband and my jobs were effected by Coronavirus. My husband was due to start a new job, but lockdown meant that the position was no longer available.
Article continues below this advertisement “As a nursery worker I still fulfilled an essential job, but our circumstances changed so drastically that we were not sure how we were going to provide for our two children. We were about to make a claim for Universal Credit (UC), but luckily I saw a website article from Citizens Advice IW that urged us to speak to them before making a claim.
“Citizens Advice IW were able to show us that UC was not the best option for us, and could actually make us worse off in the long term. With their help and advice, we were able to make successful applications for several other top up benefits to make sure we can put food on the table and provide for our children.”
“Citizens Advice Isle of Wight helped us to support our family through the Covid-19 crisis. I would urge anyone thinking of applying for Universal Credit to first speak to Citizens Advice IW to make sure they get the right help”.
If you need help with applying for Universal Credit, paying your council tax, or any other issue you may be facing, Citizens Advice IW will give you the knowledge and confidence to find a way forward.
As the CABIW offices are currently closed to the public, the best way to contact the team is via 0344 4111 444. You can also use the webform at www.islehelp.me.
Aa present, Citizens Advice are only answering voicemails left on the Adviceline number. This is the most efficient way they can deal with your enquiry. Calls are returned within 1 working day.
What to do when you call Adviceline
– Call 03444 111 444 and press * to hear the other options, and then press 0.
– Leave your details and a number that the team can contact you on
– Someone will reply as soon as they can
Calls to the Adviceline 03 number cost the same as calling 01/02 numbers & may be included as part of your mobile or landline call package. If you do not have a package, calls from a landline can cost up to 9p per minute. Mobiles may be considerably more expensive.
(The Annis family have provided permission for CAB to share their story)
Well done citizen advice for the support and guidance you gave the people , obviously helped these people a lot out of a situation they’ve not put themselves into.