A specialised welfare benefits helpline to support involvement and participation: Responses to INVOLVE s scoping survey
|
|
- Duane Young
- 6 years ago
- Views:
Transcription
1 A specialised welfare benefits helpline to support involvement and participation: Responses to INVOLVE s scoping survey April 2014
2 Contents Page Summary 3 1. Introduction 5 2. Methods 5 3. Level of interest in the proposed service 5 4. Respondents views on accessing the proposed service 6 5. Respondents views on the usefulness of different elements of service 9 6. Estimates of frequency of use of the service Size of the organisational budgets 8. Types of organisation 9. Views of who were not interested in accessing the proposed service Sharing the costs of the service across all subscribers Final comments 19 About this report This report was written by Kristina Staley, TwoCan Associates for INVOLVE. This report should be referenced as: INVOLVE (2014) A specialised welfare benefits helpline to support involvement and participation: Responses to INVOLVE s scoping survey. INVOLVE, Eastleigh. 2
3 A specialised welfare benefits helpline to support involvement and participation: Responses to INVOLVE s scoping survey Summary 1. INVOLVE, the Mental Health Research Network (MHRN) and the Social Care Institute for Excellence (SCIE) have been in discussions with Bedford Citizen s Advice Bureau (CAB)about the development of a confidential helpline service. The service would provide advice and support to help resolve any benefit or tax issues that arise around payments for involvement or participation in research, service design or service delivery. 2. Misunderstandings about payments for involvement can lead to benefits being inappropriately stopped or can discourage people from getting involved. Access to a specialist welfare benefits helpline would therefore help individuals and provide a safeguard for organisations. 3. In January and February 2014, INVOLVE conducted a survey of a wide range of health and social care organisations to find out if they would be interested in subscribing to such a service. The survey also asked interested organisations to provide further information to help inform future planning. This report provides a summary of the responses to the survey people completed the survey on behalf of their organisation. 85% of (110 organisations) expressed an interest in accessing the proposed service. 7% (9 organisations) were not interested in the service and 8% (11 organisations) said they were unsure. 5. The most common reasons said they would be interested in the service were: They thought it would benefit the people who work with them, because patients/ service users often ask for advice on benefits/ tax issues Many organisations do not have expertise in-house to cope with the complexity of the benefits/ tax system and to keep up to date with any changes Some people are deterred from getting involved or participating in research/ service development because they fear this might affect their benefits 6. Overall, the majority of felt a helpline for patients/ service users and a website would be most useful. There was slightly less support for a helpline for staff. 3
4 7. The two main factors which seem to influence the level of interest expressed by were (a) how often they are likely to use the service and (b) the cost. Organisations which anticipate using the service fewer than 10 times a year expressed less interest than organisations expecting to use it more often. Cost was the main concern for who were uncertain whether they would use the service. 8. The views were very mixed about how best to share the costs of the service across all subscribers. While many recognised that sharing costs according to actual use of the service or the size of the subscribing organisation was probably fair, they were concerned this may be difficult to implement. There was more support for trying to fund the service at a regional or national level. Some felt very strongly that the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) or National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) should meet the costs. 9. Some recommended that the service is initially set up as a pilot, with proper monitoring and evaluation. They thought this would encourage more interest. 4
5 A specialised welfare benefits helpline to support involvement and participation: Responses to INVOLVE s scoping survey 1. Introduction 1.1 INVOLVE, the Mental Health Research Network (MHRN) and the Social Care Institute for Excellence (SCIE) have been in discussions with Bedford Citizen s Advice Bureau (CAB)about the development of a confidential helpline service. The service would provide advice and support to help resolve any benefit or tax issues that arise around payments for involvement or participation in research, service design or service delivery. 1.2 Misunderstandings about payments for involvement can lead to benefits being inappropriately stopped or can discourage people from getting involved. In addition, knowledge and expertise on welfare benefits might not be available in-house and giving inappropriate advice could potentially lead to legal challenges against the host organisation. Access to a specialist welfare benefits helpline would therefore help individuals and provide a safeguard for organisations. 1.3 In January and February 2014, INVOLVE conducted a survey of a wide range of health and social care organisations to find out if they would be interested in subscribing to such a service. The survey also asked interested organisations to provide further information to help inform future planning. This report provides a summary of the results. Direct quotes from are in Calibri font. 2. Methods 2.1 An online survey was created using SurveyMonkey. An invitation to participate in the survey was sent to a wide range of organisations and individuals. People were also encouraged to forward the invitation on to others who might be interested, and the survey was advertised on the INVOLVE website. Responses were collected between 17 January and 7 February Level of interest in the proposed service 3.1 A total of 130 people completed the survey. Respondents were first asked whether their organisation would be interested in accessing a specialist welfare benefits and tax advice service. 85% (110 organisations) said this would be of interest. The responses are summarised in Table 1. 5
6 Table 1: Level of interest in the proposed service (n = 130 / 130) Is your organisation interested in this service? % of Yes definitely 59 45% Yes probably 51 40% No 9 7% Don t know 11 8% Total % 3.2 The were then asked different questions depending on how they answered this first question. The views of the in the different categories (answering yes definitely, yes probably, no or don t know ) are considered separately in the remainder of this report. Not all answered every question. The numbers of who did answer each question and the total number who could have answered, are given in brackets in each table heading. Percentages were calculated according to the number of who actually answered each question. 4. Respondents views on accessing the proposed service 4.1 The reasons expressed an interest in the service, whether definite or probable, were very similar. The most common reasons were lack of in-house expertise, the demand for advice on this issue from patients/ members of the public, and a wish to avoid impact on benefits becoming a barrier to involvement/ participation. The main reason were uncertain about accessing the service was cost. Respondents with a definite interest in accessing the proposed service (n= 59) 4.2 The reasons said their organisation would definitely be interested in accessing this service are summarised below. They are listed in order of frequency, with the most common responses being listed first. The numbers in brackets refer to the number of who gave each response. Respondents reported that: Staff within their organisation do not have expertise in this complex area and do not know where to go to get advice (n=14). Some patients/ service users have decided not to get involved (or have decided not to volunteer for participation in trials) because of the uncertainty as to how this might impact on their benefits. The new service could provide reassurance and thus help boost recruitment (n=9). Patients/ service users would value this service this is an area where organisations often get asked for advice (n=8). 6
7 They are likely to make frequent use of this service because their organisation works with communities where a large proportion of people are receiving benefits (for example mental health service users and people with multiple and complex needs) (n=3). They believe they have a duty to support the people they involve and providing benefits/ tax advice is one important aspect of that support (n=3). This service could encourage people to accept payment for their time and expenses by helping them understand how to stay within the benefit rules. Some people have turned down payment for fear of impact on their benefits (n=2). Getting this right is one way of helping people receiving benefits to move into paid employment (n=2). Concerns about how to manage the impact on benefits has led to an executive decision not to implement a payment policy for involvement (n=1). Patients/ service users have met with confusion when declaring receipt of travel expenses to the organisations that provide their benefits (n=1). They would hope to achieve more diversity among the people they involve through using this service. It would help to facilitate the involvement of people who are seldom heard (n=1). 4.3 Some said they were keen to access a specialist service rather than relying on local, general services: It is a complex issue varying from individual to individual, and information needs continual updating so accessing a more specialist service makes good sense. Generic services do not understand the needs of people who may want to be involved for very small pieces of work. The people I work with are particularly anxious about being targeted as fit for work as soon as they do anything, because their disability is invisible. 4.4 A number of identified this type of advice as being part of the support that is essential for involvement, and would hope that the service would adopt an empowering approach: We are very keen to establish processes that are friendly and welcoming, but empowering [informing] the decisions that service users need to make about what they do with us and when. 4.5 One respondent commented that work needs to be done in parallel to tackle this issue at a policy level: Ultimately a helpline is a sticking plaster for the real underlying problem which needs resolving, which is that policy in different arms of government is pulling in entirely different directions. 7
8 Respondents who were probably interested in accessing the proposed service (n=51) 4.6 The reasons said they would probably be interested in the service were very similar to the reasons given by who were definitely interested (see 4.2). They are listed below in order of frequency, with the most common responses being listed first. The numbers in brackets refer to the number of who gave each response. Respondents reported that: Patients/ service users would value this service this is an area where organisations often get asked for advice (n=12). Staff within their organisation do not have expertise in this complex area and do not know where to go to get advice (n=8). Some patients/ service users have decided not to get involved (or have decided not to volunteer for participation in trials) because of the uncertainty as to how this might impact on their benefits. The new service could provide reassurance and thus help boost recruitment (n=3). This service would help to resolve a lot of confusion and conflicting advice on this topic (n=3). This service could encourage people to accept payment for their time and expenses by helping them understand how to stay within the benefit rules (n=2). They would like to avoid staff having to spend a lot of time managing individual casework (n=2). They are likely to make frequent use of this service because their organisation works with communities where a large proportion of people are receiving benefits (for example mental health service users and people with multiple and complex needs) (n=1). They believe they have a duty to support the people they involve and providing benefits/ tax advice is one important aspect of that support (n=1). They would hope to achieve more diversity amongst the people they involve through using this service. It would help to facilitate the involvement of people who are seldom heard (n=1). Having access to advice would encourage staff to offer payment (n=1). They would want to be reassured that they were getting their payment processes right and not adversely affecting the people they involve (n=1). Patients/ service users may not want to share personal information with the researchers/ staff they are working with and may prefer being able to access a confidential service (n=1). 4.7 Some highlighted that they would not feel confident giving advice in this area, and would value the insurance provided by this service: 8
9 Our organisation is extremely reluctant to take any responsibility for any consequences of payments to individuals in receipt of benefits. I hope this would provide reassurance that individuals were receiving appropriate support. This is such a delicate area that I would not want to try and advise on it myself. 4.8 Again expressed lack of confidence in the advice from local, general services (see 4.3) and reported that this had had an impact on their practice. I often hear reports that even when patients have sought advice from local CABs or JobCentre Plus they haven't received very useful/helpful/supportive info. This situation [relying on general advice] acts as a disincentive for us to actively seek to involve people from health communities or social communities who are more likely to be in receipt of benefits. Respondents who were uncertain as to whether their organisation would be interested in accessing the proposed service (n = 11) 4.9 The majority of who were uncertain about whether they would want to access this service were concerned about the cost (n=5). One of the NHS Trusts stated that they would find it hard to justify the cost when Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) was a small part of their work. Others also reported that: They had negated the problems around payment by paying people in vouchers. As a PPI lead, they were too junior to be able to influence decisions about whether to pay for this service. They had not done much PPI work and this issue had not been raised. 5. Respondents views on the usefulness of different elements of service 5.1 Overall, across all the categories of respondent, the majority reported that a helpline for patients/ service users and a website would be most useful. There was slightly less support for a helpline for staff. Respondents with a definite interest in accessing the proposed service (n = 59) 5.2 Respondents were asked to rate how useful they would find the different elements of the service. The vast majority of the in this category (definitely interested in the service) thought all elements would be very useful or useful (greater than 96%). There seemed to more support for a helpline for the public, than for a helpline for staff or website information (Table 2). 9
10 Table 2: How who were definitely interested in the service rated the different elements of the service (n = 52 / 59) Rating Very useful Useful Not useful Not at all useful No. % No. % No. % No. % Helpline advice for public 50 96% 2 4% 0 0% 0 0% Helpline advice for staff Website information 38 73% 12 23% 1 2% 1 2% 36 69% 14 27% 2 4% 0 0% Respondents who were probably interested in accessing the proposed service (n=51) 5.3 The vast majority of the in this category (probably interested in the service) thought a helpline for the public and a website would be very useful or useful (greater than 94%). There was slightly less support for a helpline for staff, with 82% thinking it would be very useful or useful (Table 3). Table 3: How who were probably interested in the service rated the different elements of the service (n = 34 / 51) Rating Very useful Useful Not useful Not at all useful No. % No. % No. % No. % Helpline advice for public 21 62% 12 35% 0 % 1 3% Helpline advice for staff Website information 14 41% 14 41% 5 15% 1 3% 20 59% 12 35% 2 6% 0 0% 5.4 Two of the in this category highlighted that a website would be cheaper than a helpline, which may explain the higher levels for support for this option. Respondents who were uncertain as to whether their organisation would be interested in accessing the proposed service (n = 11) 5.5 All of those who answered this question, thought website information would be useful or very useful and all but one thought helpline advice for the public would be useful. There was less support for a helpline for staff, with 44% rating this as not useful (Table 4). 10
11 Table 4: How who were uncertain about the service rated the different elements of the service Rating Very useful Useful Not useful Not at all useful No. % No. % No. % No. % Helpline advice for public (n=8) 2 25% 5 63% 1 13% 0 0% Helpline advice for staff (n=9) Website information (n=10) 2 22% 3 33% 4 44% 0 0% 4 40% 6 60% 0 0% 0 0% 6. Estimates of frequency of use of the service 6.1 Respondents were asked to estimate how often they might use the service in a year. Many said they did not know and commented that it was difficult to be sure in advance. Among those who did give an estimate, the majority of across all categories thought they would use the service less than 10 times a year. A greater proportion of the who expressed a definite interest in the service thought they might use the service more than 20 times a year (n = 10) compared to those who were probably interested (n = 2). 6.2 The estimates of who were definitely interested, probably interested and uncertain are summarised in Tables 5, 6 and 7 respectively. Table 5: Respondents who were definitely interested - estimates of the number of times they might use the service per year (n = 52 / 59) Likely number of requests for advice per year % of % % % % Over % Don t know 15 29% Total % 11
12 Table 6: Respondents who were probably interested - estimates of the number of times they might use the service per year (n = 31 / 51) Likely number of requests for advice per year % of % % % % Over % Don t know 12 39% Total 31 99% Table 7: Respondents who were uncertain - estimates of the number of times they might use the service per year (n = 10 / 11) Likely number of requests for advice per year % of % % % % Over % Don t know 6 60% Total % 7. Size of the organisational budgets 7.1 Respondents were asked to give an indication of the size of their organisation s budget to help inform future planning. Many were unable to answer this question. Among those who did, the majority across all categories were either small (budget less than 500,000) or large (budget greater than 3 million). 7.2 The responses from who were definitely interested, probably interested or uncertain about using the service are summarised in Tables 8, 9 and 10 respectively. 12
13 Table 8: Respondents who were definitely interested - estimates of the size of their organisational budget (n = 51 / 59) Size of organisation s budget % of < 500, % 500,000-1 million 3 6% 1-3 million 2 4% > 3 million 11 22% Don t know 24 47% Total % Table 9: Respondents who were probably interested - estimates of the size of their organisational budget (n = 31 / 51) Size of organisation s budget % of < 500, % 500,000-1 million 1 3% 1-3 million 2 6% > 3 million 6 19% Don t know 17 55% Total 31 99% Table 10: Respondents who were uncertain - estimates of the size of their organisational budget (n = 10 / 11) Size of organisation s budget % of < 500, % 500,000-1 million 2 20% 1-3 million 0 0% > 3 million 3 30% Don t know 4 40% Total % 13
14 8. Types of organisation 8.1 Respondents were asked which type of organisation they worked for. A number of were unable to answer this question, as they were unsure how to categorise which type of organisation they worked for, for example if they worked for a research unit jointly funded by a university and a NHS Trust. All of the who did answer this question came from NIHR organisations, universities, a NHS Trust or a voluntary organisation. None reported that they came from local authorities, private companies or any other type of organisation. 8.2 Among the 79 organisations that expressed an interest in the service and identified the category of their organisation, 20 (25%) were NIHR organisations, 24 (30%) were universities, 23 (29%) were NHS Authorities or Trusts and 12 (15%) were voluntary organisations (Tables 11 and 12). Of the 110 who expressed an interest, 31 (28%) did not identify the nature of their organisation. 8.3 The responses from who were definitely interested, probably interested or uncertain about using the service are summarised in Tables 11, 12 and 13 respectively. Table 11: Categories of organisation with a definite interest in this service (n = 49 / 59) Category of organisation % of NIHR 12 26% University 13 28% NHS Authority/ Trust 14 28% Voluntary Sector/ Charity 10 19% Local Authority/ private company/ other 0 0% Total % 14
15 Table 12: Categories of organisation who are probably interested in this service (n = 30 / 51) Category of organisation % of NIHR 8 27% University 11 37% NHS Authority/ Trust 9 30% Voluntary Sector/ Charity 2 7% Local Authority/ private company/ other 0 0% Total % Table 13: Categories of organisation who are uncertain about whether they would use the service (n = 10 / 11) Category of organisation % of NIHR 1 10% University 2 20% NHS Authority/ Trust 4 40% Voluntary Sector/ Charity 3 30% Local Authority/ private company/ other 0 0% Total % 8.4 Some of the who were interested in using the service categorised themselves as being a NIHR organisation (n = 20; Tables 11 and 12). From looking at their organisation name 12 could be identified as particular types of NIHR organisation. These are listed in Table 14. Table 14: Different types of NIHR organisation among the who expressed an interest in the service (n = 12 / 20) Type of NIHR organisation in this category Research Design Services 5 Research Network 4 Trainees Co-ordinating Centre 1 Central Commissioning Facility 1 CLAHRC 1 15
16 8.5 In addition, there was also one Biomedical Research Centre (BRC), and one other research network which expressed an interest, but did not categorise themselves as being part of the NIHR. 8.6 Respondents were also asked to provide their contact details so they could be sent further information about the project. These have been forwarded separately to INVOLVE. The numbers of who provided these details in each category are listed in Table 14. Table 14: Numbers of in each category who gave their contact details (n=75 / 130) Type of respondent (total in this category) Number who provided contact details Definitely interested (n=59) 36 Probably interested (n=51) 27 Uncertain (n=11) 7 Not interested (n=9) 5 Total Views of who were not interested in accessing the proposed service (n=9) 9.1 Some organisations (n=2) said that the service would not be relevant to them as they do not offer payment for involvement. Others (n=2) expressed a similar view on the basis that they only pay people s expenses and do not pay for their time. 9.2 Three organisations thought this specialist advice should be routinely available through local CABs without incurring any cost. One respondent commented that this was in line with INVOLVE s current guidance which recommends that individuals contact their local CAB or JobCentre Plus for advice prior to getting involved. 9.3 One organisation has a large internal HR/ legal department and therefore has access to this advice in-house. They said they might still be interested in using the service as a back-up. 10. Sharing the costs of the service across all subscribers 10.1 Respondents views on how best to share the costs of the service were very mixed. Some favoured sharing costs according to actual use of the service or according to the size of the subscribing organisation, or both. Others thought that the service should be paid for at a regional or national level. There were also alternative suggestions for resolving this issue. Respondents views on the strengths and weaknesses of these different options are discussed below. 16
17 Sharing costs according to actual use of the service 10.2 This approach was favoured by some as it seemed to be a fair solution:. It would be unfair to charge organisations that rarely use the service as much as those that use it regularly For organisations who might only use the service one or two times a year, a flat fee per organisation could become prohibitively expensive. Some therefore suggested that organisations are asked to pay a fee according to the number of enquiries they make or are charged per call to the service The who were not in favour of this approach raised the following concerns: It may not be possible to accurately predict the number of times an organisation will use the service, so this will require monitoring, and charges will need to made retrospectively. Charging per call or enquiry could create an unacceptable administrative burden for the service and its users. This approach could be a disincentive to using the service for every individual with a query. Sharing costs according to the size of the organisation 10.5 This approach was favoured by some because it seemed to be a fair solution, particularly for smaller organisations with smaller budgets. They recommended a simple annual fee One respondent suggested encouraging organisations to view the payment as a form of insurance rather than as payment for use of the service: Ultimately one of the major benefits of the service is that it provides what is in effect an insurance policy for organisations - whether or not they have recourse to use the service itself The who were not in favour of this approach raised the following concerns: There may be overlap between organisations making it difficult to decide which organisation should pay, for example in the case of research centres/ units funded by a partnership between a Trust and university. Similarly, who would pay when a Trust or university hosts a NIHR service such as a Research Design Service? There may be only one small department with a limited budget which wants to access the service, even though it may be sitting within a much larger organisation. In such cases it might be fairer to set the subscription fee according to the size of department/ unit rather than the host organisation. The boundaries of an organisation would need to be clearly defined. For example, if the NIHR Central Commissioning Facility (CCF) took out a 17
18 subscription, would all the researchers funded through its programme grants be eligible to use the service? Some patients/ service users might want to access the service before they are affiliated to any particular organisation. Using a combination of criteria to decide how to share costs 10.8 Some suggested using a combined approach, so that, for example, large organisations making frequent use of the service could pay a flat fee, whereas smaller organisations using the service one or two times per year could access it on a pay as you go basis Having a flexible approach to payment might be a good solution so that organisations have a choice as to whether to subscribe for a limited period of time or whether to pay each time they contact the service. Paying for the service at a regional or national level Since each organisation might only use the service infrequently, it might be better to ask regional networks to subscribe, thus spreading the costs much further: I doubt my organisation would be able to afford a subscription as demand for the case work element would be low, but if there was a regional consortium which took out a subscription, we may be able to contribute as part of this Some expressed strong views that this service should be funded centrally, either by the DWP or by NIHR: I strongly believe this should be centrally funded by the DWP which is creating all the problems in the first place. I do not believe cost-sharing is appropriate or workable. We do not feel that a cost-sharing approach is the correct one or an appropriate use of our PPI funds we believe the service should receive central DH/ DWP support/ funding. Central policy [encourages us] to pay for involvement and we believe this to be fair, yet we are hampered in implementing this by the lack of coherent support for those on benefits, and this in turn makes it impossible to safely (or fairly) offer payment to anyone. It would be fantastic if one of the major funders could support this initiative directly. This would be efficient as there would be no need to decide how to handle/check callers who weren't from subscribing organisations and would avoid the administrative overhead of billing, monitoring use, etc. Alternative suggestions for sharing costs Alternative suggestions for sharing costs included: Providing contracts that allow an organisation to pay for a specific amount of time from the advisor. Allocating costs in proportion to the size of the organisation s PPI budget. 18
19 Setting up different levels of subscription for different levels of access, for example Level 1 - web based information (low annual fee), Level 2 - access to advice for staff (medium annual fee), Level 3 - access to case work support (higher annual fee). Including a standard fee within all grant applications with PPI. 11. Final comments 11.1 A number of said that the cost of the service would be the critical factor influencing their final decision as to whether to subscribe. Five thought their organisation would not be willing to pay for the service due to limited budgets. This group included NHS Trusts and a university The other issues that raised are listed below: Patients/ service users have expressed a preference for face-to-face meetings to access confidential support which would not be feasible with this service and may limit its usefulness. Subscribing organisations would need a clear indication of their entitlements in relation to use of the service (for example is it general advice during one phone call or ongoing support to resolve individual cases?). They would want to be sure that the service was accessible and provided comprehensive advice tailored to individual circumstances. It is important that the service is able to support people based outside of England Tax issues for people that are employed or retired and get involved or participate in research are as big an issue as managing the impact on benefits. The service needs to be properly evaluated and set up as a pilot in the first instance this might be a more attractive proposition to subscribers. 19
20 INVOLVE is a national advisory body that is funded by the National Institute for Health Research to support public involvement in NHS, public health and social care research and development. If you would like to know more about what we do, please contact us: INVOLVE Wessex House Upper Market Street Eastleigh Hampshire SO50 9FD Web: admin@invo.org.uk Telephone: If you need a copy of this report in another format please contact INVOLVE. admin@invo.org.uk Telephone: This report is also available to download from: 20
Living with dementia Employment
Living with dementia Employment AS_Living with Dementia_Employment_Booklet_AW.indd 1 07/09/2016 17:13 AS_Living with Dementia_Employment_Booklet_AW.indd 2 07/09/2016 17:13 Living with dementia Employment
More informationPolicy on payment of fees and expenses for members of the public actively involved with INVOLVE
Policy on payment of fees and expenses for members of the public actively involved with INVOLVE Contents February 2016 1. Introduction... 2 2. Who does this policy apply to?... 3 3. Covering your expenses...
More informationThe Pensions Advisory Service EQUALITY IMPACT ASSESSMENT BACK CATALOGUE
The Pensions Advisory Service EQUALITY IMPACT ASSESSMENT BACK CATALOGUE Introduction The Pensions Advisory Service has carried out an equality impact assessment (EIA) on existing policies and procedures.
More informationAnnex B: Payment and Expenses for Governors
Annex B: Payment and Expenses for Governors Introduction 1. This document has been produced by the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) with advice from the Charity Commission to guide
More informationGetting help with your benefits. November 2008 Factsheet Gen1
Getting help with your benefits November 2008 Factsheet Gen1 Contents Page Quick help...3 What you can get help with...4 Who can help...6 Voluntary sector agencies:...8 Solicitors...10 Government agencies...11
More informationVolunteering and state benefits
Volunteering and state benefits Summary Although there can be confusion over whether volunteering affects an individual s benefits or not - including amongst some Jobcentre Plus staff - the rules are actually
More informationPersonal budgets briefing
March 2011 At a glance 40 Personal budgets briefing Learning from the experiences of older people and their carers Key messages Many older people see personal budgets as offering them more independence,
More informationVolunteering. while getting benefits. Part of the Department for Work and Pensions
Volunteering while getting benefits Part of the Department for Work and Pensions This leaflet is only a guide and does not cover every circumstance. We have done our best to make sure the leaflet is correct
More informationA Snap Shot of the LGBT Sector. #LGBTResilience
A Snap Shot of the LGBT Sector #LGBTResilience August 2016 Foreword Paul Roberts, Chief Executive Officer at LGBT Consortium LGBT Consortium is passionate about working with its Membership to explore how
More informationBriefing from Mind. Moving to Universal Credit from ESA June About Mind. Summary
Briefing from Mind Moving to Universal Credit from ESA June 2018 About Mind We're Mind, the mental health charity for England and Wales. We believe no one should have to face a mental health problem alone.
More informationYoung People and Money Report
Young People and Money Report 2018 marks the Year of Young People, a Scottish Government initiative giving young people a platform to voice issues that affect their lives and allowing us to celebrate their
More informationINTELLECTUAL PROPERTY POLICY
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY POLICY Category: Summary: Policy The Policy sets out the procedures that the Trust has adopted to ensure that Intellectual Property (IP) generated using the Trust s resources is identified
More informationVolunteer Expenses Policy
Volunteer Expenses Policy Ref Number: Version: 1 Status: FINAL Author: A Brown Approval body Remuneration Committee & Date Approved 29 October 2018 Remuneration & Terms of Service Committee Date Issued
More informationManaging your finances (general)
Managing your finances (general) This Infosheet covers some of the things you may need to think about as a myeloma patient regarding your finances, and resources for further help and advice. A diagnosis
More informationMoneyPlan. A lack of funds does not equate to an absence of complexity
MoneyPlan A pilot project giving independent financial advice to Citizens Advice Bureaux clients A lack of funds does not equate to an absence of complexity Robert Reid, Chartered Financial Planner Past
More informationRetirement Policy. Yes. considered? How will implementation be monitored? Through the SWCSU HR Team. How will the policy be shared with:
Retirement Policy Retirement Policy Doc. Ref. No. HR035 Title of Document Retirement policy Author s Name Jude Champion Author s job title Senior HR Business Partner Dept / Service Human Resources Doc.
More informationHealth Education England s Patient & Public Voice Remuneration Policy
Health Education England s Patient & Public Voice Remuneration Policy Members Version Introduction HEE exists to help improve the quality of care delivered to patients and HEE is committed to ensuring
More informationReport on Women and Pensions Helpline 18 October to 10 December 2004
Report on Women and Pensions Helpline 18 October to 10 December 2004 Contents 2 Executive Summary 3 Introduction 4 Our Callers 5 State Pension Enquiries 6 Shortfall in National Insurance Contributions
More informationResolution Legal Aid Committee s guide to Very High Cost cases and Prior Authority
Resolution Legal Aid Committee s guide to Very High Cost cases and Prior Authority Recently members of Resolution s Legal Aid Committee have visited the Legal Services Commission s offices in Birmingham
More informationWelfare safety net inquiry
Welfare safety net inquiry Written evidence submitted by Changing Lives and Fulfilling Lives Newcastle Gateshead, December 2018 1. Introduction 1.1 Changing Lives is a national charity which provides a
More informationRegulation of insolvency practice
Regulation of insolvency practice Consultation response 17 March 2015 Introduction 1. This report summarises the feedback that we received during our recent consultation on the regulation of insolvency
More informationSummary of consultation feedback:
Summary of consultation feedback: Future funding of supported housing 20 December 2017 Summary of key points: This briefing summarises the feedback we have received from housing associations to date on
More informationBenefits Based Borrowing. A guide for disabled people using their benefits to buy property suited to their needs.
Benefits Based Borrowing A guide for disabled people using their benefits to buy property suited to their needs. Introduction Many disabled people rely on state benefits for part or all of their income
More informationCustomers experience of the Tax Credits Helpline
Customers experience of the Tax Credits Helpline Findings from the 2009 Panel Study of Tax Credits and Child Benefit Customers Natalie Maplethorpe, National Centre for Social Research July 2011 HM Revenue
More informationNIHR Evaluation Trials and Studies Coordinating Centre (NETSCC) payments to public contributors
NIHR Evaluation Trials and Studies Coordinating Centre (NETSCC) payments to public contributors 1. Principles of payment NETSCC has a clear policy on payments that can be made to public contributors who
More informationProcess and methods Published: 18 February 2014 nice.org.uk/process/pmg18
Guide to the technology appraisal aisal and highly specialised technologies appeal process Process and methods Published: 18 February 2014 nice.org.uk/process/pmg18 NICE 2014. All rights reserved. Contents
More information1 Introduction. 2 Executive summary
HMRC Consultation Document Strengthening Sanctions for Tax Avoidance a Consultation on Detailed Proposals Response by the Chartered Institute of Taxation 1 Introduction 1.1 This consultation follows the
More informationOptions for dealing with debt
Options for dealing with debt This factsheet explains what you can do if you cannot afford your debts. It gives an overview of the options that you may have, but is not a suitable alternative to speaking
More informationMay Carer s Allowance
May 2018 Carer s Are you a carer? You may not think of yourself as one, but if you look after a partner, relative or friend who would find it difficult to manage without your support, then you are a carer.
More informationCorporate Plan
Corporate Plan 2016-2019 Contents Introduction 3 Our services 4 Looking back 5 Vision for the future 6 Priorities 7 Raising customer awareness Developing services Sharing customer insight Resources 8 Finance
More informationADR AND CIVIL JUSTICE - INTERIM REPORT OF CIVIL JUSTICE COUNCIL
ADR AND CIVIL JUSTICE - INTERIM REPORT OF CIVIL JUSTICE COUNCIL WORKING GROUP OCTOBER 2017 This is the response of NHS Resolution (formerly NHS Litigation Authority) to the consultation questions in the
More informationTemple Legal Protection Product Guide. Litigation Insurance and Disbursement Funding for Commercial Litigation
Litigation Insurance and Disbursement Funding for Commercial Litigation Temple Legal Protection Product Guide How they work, our service offering and the benefits of partnering with us 01483 577877 www.temple-legal.co.uk
More informationImpact of the recession on the voluntary and community sector
Impact of the recession on the voluntary and community sector Key Findings Just over half of respondents (50.8%) stated that the recession has yet to have an impact on their funding streams. Nearly three
More informationA survival guide to Benefits and living together
A survival guide to Benefits and living together Making sense of the law and your rights Contents What counts as living together? 3 I m moving in with my partner 5 will I lose benefits? Would I be better
More informationConsultation response
Consultation response Age UK s Response to the Work and Pensions Committee Inquiry into changes to Housing Benefit September 2010 Name: Sally West Email: sally.west@ageuk.org.uk Age UK Astral House, 1268
More informationCredit Card Market Study Interim Report: Annex 3: Results from the consumer survey
MS14/6.2: Annex 3 Market Study Interim Report: Annex 3: November 2015 November 2015 0 Contents 1 Introduction 2 Definitions 2 Background to the 3 The structure of this document 4 2 Consumer understanding
More informationBenefits update. HOW THE CHANGES WILL AFFECT YOU. Rethink Mental Illness. 1
Benefits update. HOW THE CHANGES WILL AFFECT YOU. Rethink Mental Illness. 1 Contents Introduction 3 Changes to Housing Benefit the bedroom tax 4 The changes in a nutshell 4 How much will my benefits go
More informationResponse to Department of Health Consultation Introducing Fixed Recoverable Costs in Lower Value Clinical Negligence claims.
Response to Department of Health Consultation Introducing Fixed Recoverable Costs in Lower Value Clinical Negligence claims May 2017 Introduction The Council is concerned that the proposals may impede
More informationBusiness Plan
Peterborough Our mission is to promote the well-being of all older people and to help make later life a fulfilling and enjoyable experience Business Plan 2010-2013 Contents Page Subject Page Number Purpose
More informationBarnardo s Scotland. Protection of Vulnerable Groups (Scotland) Act 2007 Response to Consultation on policy proposals for secondary legislation
Barnardo s Scotland Protection of Vulnerable Groups (Scotland) Act 2007 Response to Consultation on policy proposals for secondary legislation Introduction Barnardo s Scotland manages over 60 services
More informationPersonal Sick Pay. Paying you an income if you can t work because of an accident or illness
Personal Sick Pay Paying you an income if you can t work because of an accident or illness Personal Sick Pay How it works when you can t Personal Sick Pay is a type of income protection insurance which
More informationPaying for care. An information guide for people living in Surrey
Paying for care An information guide for people living in Surrey 2 Surrey County Council About this booklet Paying for care is a very complicated subject. This Easy Read booklet is very long but we felt
More informationPayment system reform proposals for 2019/20. A joint publication by NHS England and NHS Improvement
Payment system reform proposals for 2019/20 A joint publication by NHS England and NHS Improvement October 2018 Payment system reform proposals for 2019/20 A joint publication by NHS England and NHS Improvement
More informationSURREY WELFARE RIGHTS UNIT - APPLICATION FOR SUPPORT
Agenda Item No. 28 EXECUTIVE 15 DECEMBER 2016 Executive Summary SURREY WELFARE RIGHTS UNIT - APPLICATION FOR SUPPORT Surrey Welfare Rights Unit provides support to statutory and Voluntary Community Sector
More informationTackling Benefit Fraud
Department for Work and Pensions Tackling Benefit Fraud REPORT BY THE COMPTROLLER AND AUDITOR GENERAL HC 393 Session 2002-2003: 13 February 2003 LONDON: The Stationery Office 11.25 Ordered by the House
More informationBreaching anti-bribery and anti-corruption law is a serious offence and represents a failure of our commitment to business integrity.
Anti-Bribery and Anti- Corruption Policy PURPOSE This document sets out Control Risks policy on bribery and corruption. Control Risks is committed to the highest ethical standards, and vigorously enforces
More informationGuidance notes (continued)
Help and advice about other benefits If you want general advice about any other benefits you may be able to claim Ring the Benefit Enquiry Line (BEL) for people with disabilities on 0800 88 22 00. People
More information2018 Report. July 2018
2018 Report July 2018 Foreword This year the FCA and FCA Practitioner Panel have, for the second time, carried out a joint survey of regulated firms to monitor the industry s perception of the FCA and
More informationThe ARCO Consumer Code
The ARCO Consumer Code September 2015 Copyright 2015. Associated Retirement Community Operators Ltd. Registered in England and Wales. No. 08209801 Registered office: The Heals Building, Suites A&B, Third
More informationPolicy 42 Anti-Fraud, Anti-Theft & Anti-Corruption
Policy 42 Anti-Fraud, Anti-Theft & Anti-Corruption Table of Contents Introduction...1 Our written rules...2 Expected Behaviour...2 Preventing fraud, theft and corruption...3 Detecting and investigating
More informationTO FIT YOUR BUSINESS
For employers Retirement Solutions TAILORED SOLUTIONS TO FIT YOUR BUSINESS A guide for employers WORK SMARTER NOT HARDER These days, offering your workers a good pension is vital. Of course, as pensions
More informationAlternative Dispute Resolution for Consumers Implementing the Alternative Dispute Resolution Directive and Online Dispute Resolution Regulation.
NCS Alternative Dispute Resolution for Consumers Implementing the Alternative Dispute Resolution Directive and Online Dispute Resolution Regulation. The NCS would like to thank the Department for Business,
More informationNAVWEALTH NEWS. Contact us
NAVWEALTH NEWS After 27 years of working in the financial services industry I have learnt that it is never dull, and 2017 certainly didn t disappoint in that regard. In 2017 we saw the most comprehensive
More informationState of the Market Survey Local Authority Catering Services
State of the Market Survey 2018 Local Authority Catering Services Briefing 18/50 December 2018 The state of the market survey was conducted by Vickie Hacking, APSE Principal Advisor. For any enquires in
More informationMembership & Registration Information
Membership & Registration Information 2017-2018 Scottish Charity Number SC034921 Company Registered in Scotland SC258173 Scottish Mediation exists to help Scotland deal positively with conflict. Scottish
More informationUniversal Credit: an overview October 2018
Universal Credit: an overview October 2018 What is Universal Credit? 2 Areas of the country where you can claim UC 2 Who will be able to claim UC? 3 Payment of UC 4 Making a claim 4 How is UC calculated?
More informationA FLEXIBLE RETIREMENT INCOME FOR WHATEVER THE FUTURE HOLDS LET S TALK HOW. PENSION DRAWDOWN
A FLEXIBLE RETIREMENT INCOME FOR WHATEVER THE FUTURE HOLDS LET S TALK HOW. PENSION DRAWDOWN INTRODUCING FLEXIBLE RETIREMENT INCOME What do you think you ll be doing in ten years time? Or twenty? It s not
More informationHome Office consultation: Improving police integrity: reforming the police complaints and disciplinary system
Home Office consultation: Improving police integrity: reforming the police complaints and disciplinary system The Police Foundation s response The Police Foundation is the only independent charity focused
More informationSUMMARY OF BORROWER SURVEY DATA
SUMMARY OF BORROWER SURVEY DATA STUDENT LOAN BORROWER COUNSELING PROGRAM An Initiative of the Center for Excellence in Financial Counseling Introduction This summary provides results from the pilot test
More informationQuality Assurance Scheme for Organisations
Quality Assurance Scheme for Organisations New policy proposals by the Professional Regulation Executive Committee Exposure Draft ED 30 Consultation paper May 2013 Contents 1. Introduction and background
More informationIndependent safeguarding authority and statement of Secretary of State for Education on scheme changes
Briefing 09-68 December 2009 Independent safeguarding authority and statement of Secretary of State for Education on scheme changes This briefing is provided to APSE contacts in England, Scotland, Wales
More informationCancer Essentials. Retirement Investments. Insurance Health. Retirementyou. Investments. Insurance. Health. Retirement. Investments.
Cancer Essentials Retirement Investments Insurance Health Retirement Investments Health Providing financial Insurance and emotional support Retirementyou Investments Insurance with Health cancer should
More informationMeasuring Client Outcomes. An overview of StepChange Debt Charity s client outcomes measurement pilot project
Measuring Client Outcomes An overview of StepChange Debt Charity s client outcomes measurement pilot project February 2019 2 Measuring Client Outcomes February 2019 Introduction Since 2017, StepChange
More informationBenefits Based Borrowing. A Guide to for disabled people to buying property more suited to their needs using their benefits.
Benefits Based Borrowing A Guide to for disabled people to buying property more suited to their needs using their benefits. Introduction Many disabled people rely on state benefits for part or all of their
More informationPayment for involvement in research: helpful benefit rules and systems for avoiding benefit problems
INVOLVE is funded by the National Institute for Health Research Payment for involvement in research: helpful benefit rules and systems for avoiding benefit problems Judy Scott, Independent Consultant November
More informationAttitudes towards New Zealand s financial markets. Investor confidence research May 2018
Attitudes towards New Zealand s financial markets Investor confidence research May 2018 Contents C3 Background C4 Summary C7 Findings C7 Confidence in New Zealand s financial markets C19 Investment types
More informationSpecified Procedures for Assurance Engagements at Smaller Authorities Version issued on: 17 January 2017
Auditor Guidance Note AGN 02 Engagements at Smaller Authorities Auditor Guidance Note 2 (AGN 02) Engagements at Smaller Authorities Version issued on: 17 January 2017 About Auditor Guidance Notes Auditor
More informationHousing Rights Service and Law Centre (NI) Joint Response to a Consultation Paper on a Rate Rebate Replacement Scheme
Housing Rights Service and Law Centre (NI) Joint Response to a Consultation Paper on a Rate Rebate Replacement Scheme February 2015 1 1.0 Introduction This is a joint response between Housing Rights Service
More informationBenefits Based Buying
Are you or a member of your family disabled? Benefits Based Buying How to buy a home using a mortgage when your main source of income is state benefits 2 Introduction Many disabled people rely on state
More informationTraining services. Course brochure 2017
Training services Course brochure 2017 Contents An introduction to Training Services from Citizens Advice Reading... 2 Course fees... 3 How to book... 3 Welfare benefits courses... 4 Introduction to benefits...
More informationSOUTHWARK AND LONDON DIOCESAN HOUSING ASSOCIATION RESIDENTS HANDBOOK
SOUTHWARK AND LONDON DIOCESAN HOUSING ASSOCIATION RESIDENTS HANDBOOK 1 Useful Numbers Police/fire/ambulance 999 BT Directory Enquiries 118500 SLDHA Main Office Number 020 7089 1370 SLDHA Emergency Repairs
More informationacie Independent Examination OSCR Guidance for Charities and Independent Examiners
Independent Examination OSCR Guidance for Charities and Independent Examiners www.oscr.org.uk OSCR would like to acknowledge the significant contribution made by ACIE in the preparation of this guidance
More informationGriffith University. Preparing strata title communities for climate change survey: On line questionnaire findings summary for survey respondents
Griffith University Preparing strata title communities for climate change survey: On line questionnaire findings summary for survey respondents This report provides a summary of findings arising from Griffith
More informationISA qualifying investments: including peer-to-peer loans HM Treasury
ISA qualifying investments: including peer-to-peer loans HM Treasury Visualise your business future with Altus Consulting Reference HMT/P2PISA/RESP Date 09/12/2014 Issue 1.0 Author Bruce Davidson Security
More informationEMPLOYMENT RELATIONS RESEARCH SERIES NO The Fair Treatment at Work Age Report Findings from the 2008 survey MARCH 2010
EMPLOYMENT RELATIONS RESEARCH SERIES NO. 109 The Fair Treatment at Work Age Report Findings from the 2008 survey MARCH 2010 EMPLOYMENT RELATIONS RESEARCH SERIES NO. 109 The Fair Treatment at Work Age Report
More information1 Introduction. 2 Executive summary
HMRC Consultation Document Tackling offshore tax evasion: Civil sanctions for enablers of offshore evasion Response by the Chartered Institute of Taxation 1 Introduction 1.1 This consultation is inviting
More informationHelp with health costs
Help with health costs There are a number of benefits and entitlements available to help older people with the cost of healthcare, such as prescription costs, dental treatment, eye tests and travel to
More informationWTC 4. Tax Credit Penalties How tax credit enquiries are settled
Tax Credit Penalties How tax credit enquiries are settled 1 of 13 Contents Introduction Why have you sent me this leaflet? 3 What if I claim as part of a couple? 4 What if I have special needs? 4 During
More informationAlternative Dispute Resolution Service Consumer Guide
Alternative Dispute Resolution Service Consumer Guide The Furniture Ombudsman works with the British Association of Removers member firms (BAR) to raise industry standards and ensure that their customers
More informationFundraising Events Management Policy and Procedure Beacon, Solent NHS Charity *Charity No:
Fundraising Events Management Policy and Procedure Beacon, Solent NHS Charity *Charity No: 1053431 Please be aware that this printed version of the Policy may NOT be the latest version. Staff are reminded
More informationMAKING SHARED EQUITY ACCESSIBLE TO DISABLED PEOPLE
MAKING SHARED EQUITY ACCESSIBLE TO DISABLED PEOPLE This is an information booklet aimed at RSLs seeking to understand the exceptions to the standard shared equity criteria, in order to assist disabled
More informationyou for your clients
Working you with for your clients A partner you can depend on 2 When you re choosing a partner to help you manage your clients wealth, you want to be confident that their investment process is rigorous,
More informationHelp with health costs
Help with health costs There are a number of benefits and entitlements available to help older people with the cost of healthcare, such as prescription costs, dental treatment, eye tests and travel to
More informationPolicy Statement 10/6. Financial Services Authority. Distribution of retail investments: Delivering the RDR - feedback to CP09/18 and final rules
Policy Statement 10/6 Financial Services Authority Distribution of retail investments: Delivering the RDR - feedback to CP09/18 and final rules March 2010 Contents 1 Overview 3 2 Describing and disclosing
More informationSelf funding your residential care
Choosing and paying for care Self funding your residential care a guide to help with care charges for people paying for their residential or nursing home care Adult social care About this booklet This
More informationHMRC Consultation Document Tackling Offshore Tax Evasion: A Requirement to Correct Response by the Chartered Institute of Taxation
HMRC Consultation Document Tackling Offshore Tax Evasion: A Requirement to Correct Response by the Chartered Institute of Taxation 1 Introduction 1.1 This is the latest in a series of consultations by
More informationUsing direct payments or a personal budget
Using direct payments or a personal budget This factsheet is relevant to you if you have had a care needs assessment, qualify for council support and social services are arranging your care. Your personal
More informationInvesting for income. A guide to broadening your income horizons
Investing for income A guide to broadening your income horizons TABLE OF CONTENTS Welcome to our little guide 3 Seeking income in a low rate environment 4 Putting your savings to work 6 Broaden your income
More informationIf you are considering Deputyship, ask yourself the following questions:
INFORMATION SHEET Getting legal Deputyship for property or welfare decisions This information sheet has been written for family carers who reside in England and Wales who wish to gain legal power to make
More informationAlternative method of VAT collection Response by the Chartered Institute of Taxation
Alternative method of VAT collection Response by the Chartered Institute of Taxation 1 Introduction 1.1 The Chartered Institute of Taxation (CIOT) is pleased to set out its comments in relation to the
More informationUsing direct payments or a personal budget
Using direct payments or a personal budget This factsheet is relevant to you if you have had a care needs assessment, qualify for council support and social services are arranging your care. Your personal
More informationFINANCE BILL 2015 DRAFT CLAUSES EXEMPTION FROM INCOME TAX FOR TRIVIAL BENEFITS PROVIDED BY EMPLOYERS
FINANCE BILL 2015 DRAFT CLAUSES EXEMPTION FROM INCOME TAX FOR TRIVIAL BENEFITS PROVIDED BY EMPLOYERS Response by the Association of Taxation Technicians 1 Introduction 1.1 The Association of Taxation Technicians
More informationPerformance Report. Quarter /14 (July to October 2013) Database-cut: 25 October 2013 Issued: 4 December 2013
Performance Report Quarter 2 2013/14 (July to October 2013) Database-cut: 25 October 2013 Issued: 4 December 2013 CONTENTS Section 1: Introduction 2 Section 2: Executive Summary for Q2 2013/14 Performance
More informationDefending UNISON s voice The Trade Union Act and the political fund
Defending UNISON s voice The Trade Union Act and the political fund 23 October 2017 12 January 2018 Foreword by the political fund working group The Trade Union Act has significant implications for UNISON
More informationWhy do you need a pension? State and other types of pension schemes. Company or occupational pensions offered by Employers
Contents: What is a pension? Why do you need a pension? State and other types of pension schemes Company or occupational pensions offered by Employers Personal or private pension schemes Shopping around
More informationOPJSNA Factsheet 2: Wider determinants of Health in Older People (Income, Benefits and Poverty)
OPJSNA Factsheet 2: Wider determinants of Health in Older People (Income, Benefits and Poverty) Summary Having sufficient income is a key factor in older people maintaining health, well-being and independence.
More informationOXTED & DISTRICT CITIZENS ADVICE BUREAU
OXTED & DISTRICT CITIZENS ADVICE BUREAU The charity for your community Note from the Chair My first and pleasant duty is to express our sincere thanks to Katherine Saunders who stood down as Chair in September
More informationWhat keeps Trust Boards awake at night? (2015 Edition) Foundation and NHS Trust Assurance Framework Benchmarking
What keeps Trust Boards awake at night? (2015 Edition) The overall purpose of the insight is to enable individual Foundation Trusts and NHS Trusts to understand how key elements of their Assurance Frameworks
More informationHelping People Make the Most of Their Pensions David Berenbaum, TPAS Philip Brown, Head of Policy LV=
Helping People Make the Most of Their Pensions David Berenbaum, TPAS Philip Brown, Head of Policy LV= David Berenbaum TPAS 1 The pension landscape has changed so that individuals need to take responsibility
More informationCase study 1: Money management - Juggling different funding streams Kent Council and CCG
Case study 1: Money management - Juggling different funding streams Kent Council and CCG Introduction Integrated budgets are not new. Every council in England has, for instance, some experience of supporting
More information