Lancashire County Council are funding help for Lancashire residents applying for certain benefits as part of their Cost Of Living support until the end of June 2023. ICANN are using our experience in advocacy to help with filling out application forms, as well as supporting Lancashire residents at assessments and appeal tribunals. With the current cost of living crisis, it’s more important than ever to make sure people are receiving the help they are entitled to.
We know that these processes can be difficult to handle by yourself, and you may feel overwhelmed or unsure where to turn to for support – we are here to help with benefits applications and support you to say what you want, secure your rights and obtain the services that you need.
And if you don’t live in Lancashire – we’ve not forgotten you! We have digital guides which you can download to help with every aspect of the application process for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and Work Capability Assessments (ESA/ UC).
Form Filling Help
Until the end of June 2023, we have funding to help with filling in forms for Personal Independence Payment (PIP), UC50/ESA50 (WCA), Attendance Allowance (AA) and Child Disability Living Allowance (Child DLA). Please contact the Department of Work and Pensions to check your eligibility for these and contact us once you receive your form. We will then arrange for an advocate to help you.
In December 2022 and January 2023, we also have some drop in sessions at the Sahara Centre (women only due to the nature of this charity), and Lancashire Recovery College, based near Deepdale. Please contact these organisations directly for more information.
Personal Independence Payment and Work Capability Health Assessments
Once you apply for PIP or WCA, you may be asked to attend a health assessment with a healthcare professional to further assess how your condition affects you. We will support you through this process, explaining what to expect and being at the assessment with you, whether it’s over the phone, virtually or in person.
Appeal Tribunals for PIP/ WCA
If you have an appeal for PIP or WCA, our advocates will support you with that – similar to a benefits health assessment.
Advocacy is available to everyone, regardless of background, and we will treat you with dignity and respect.