Age UK branch suspends benefits service

A local branch of Age UK has suspended its benefits advice service due to a "lack of funding".

The national charity's Wolverhampton branch, which provides support and advice to the elderly, said it had suspended the service from the end of March.

Older people had previously been able to get benefit checks and support with their applications as part of the service.

A spokesperson for the charity said: "Age UK Wolverhampton is not regularly funded by the council or government. We try to secure any funding to deliver services to older people when it becomes available from any sources."

In a Facebook post informing people of the decision, the charity said its information and advice telephone and online service would remain open to provide general information on their services and other issues that elderly people may need help with.

The Wolverhampton branch said they may also be able to signpost people who need welfare benefits advice to similar services, which include the local authority.

A spokesperson said: "We informed Wolverhampton City Council of this imminent suspension last summer due to the potential impact on some of their services.

"We remain open to dialogue with them and have had recent discussions."

The branch advised contacting the City of Wolverhampton Council Benefits Helpline, which is open Monday to Friday between 10:00 and 12:00 BST.

People can also email [email protected] or call 07966 292321.

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