Welfare Rights Service
We are based in Social Services Offices throughout North Ayrshire, dealing with Welfare Rights and Debt Advice issues. We produce and distribute information and give out advice on poverty and rights issues. We can respond to specific local situations such as a major redundancies and we contribute to central and local government policy developments.
Welfare Rights involves the legal rights of people within the field of social welfare.
This includes :
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entitlement to Social Security benefits,
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housing benefits and services,
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local authority benefits and services and health benefits.
Welfare Rights Officers can advise on all benefits whereas other agencies may advise only on the particular benefit they administer. Advice will be offered at every stage of the claim and on how to appeal against a decision.
Our expertise allows us to look at all your options. We consider all the circumstances rather than simply answering basic questions you ask. By keeping up to date with new legislation and regulations, which constantly change, we can advise on the complex issues that affect you.
We do not work in any area of private commerce or compensation. We do not advise in disputes between individuals and their employer in contractual matters that are not covered by statutory rules.
We take referrals from Social Workers, Health Board staff and voluntary agencies. Individuals may arrange an appointment at local Social Services Offices. We can give advice or refer for specialist help. To arrange representation at an Appeal Tribunal contact the Welfare Rights Unit.
The service is available to all, it is free and confidentiality is assured.
Welfare Rights Officers - where to find us...
Welfare Rights Officers are based in Social Services Offices throughout North Ayrshire.
Welfare Rights Service Appeals Representation
We provide advice and may attend tribunal hearings to represent people who appeal against a benefit decision. Appeals are usually heard at a local venue. It is important to appeal within the time limit – usually within 4 weeks of the decision. You should use the correct form – GL24 – available from the office which made the decision or from the Department of Works and Pensions. It is available in a number of ethnic languages, including Chinese, Urdu and Punjabi. You can find this form by using the link to the DWP and entering "GL24" into the search box on the DWP website
If you would like advice on completing the form please contact your nearest Social Services office to arrange an appointment.
The Welfare Rights Service will not guarantee to represent but we seldom refuse. It is only likely to happen if the Tribunal Service arrange too many appeals for our Team to cope with and refuse to postpone. Very occasionally an appeal cannot be supported because it is contrary to all the facts and evidence e.g. your own medical evidence.
For more information on appeals representation contact the Welfare Rights Unit.
Other Useful links:
Debt Advice
Citizens Advice Scotland
NACAS North Ayrshire Citizens Advice Service
North Ayrshire Benefits Useful Numbers (PDF, 39Kb)