Bus is back to help you on to benefits

Council staff will be out and about next week to give advice on benefits that Rochdale residents might be entitled to but aren’t claiming at the moment.

A special mobile advice centre will be back in town next week and experts will be on hand to help explain what benefits are available from Rochdale Council, as well as from the government or other agencies.

The bus is fully equipped with office facilities and interview booths, and Revenues & Benefits officers will be able to answer queries on benefits including pension credit, housing benefit, council tax benefit, free school meals and secondary school uniform vouchers.

Cabinet member for finance, Councillor Greg Couzens said: “Do you know what benefits you are entitled to? A lot of people aren’t claiming their full entitlement, so we’re going out on the road to try and increase awareness. Sometimes people just don’t know what is available to them – but it’s often the idea of filling out a form that puts people off. Our team will try to make the process as simple as possible and ensure you don’t miss out on financial help that’s due to you. This is one bus you do not want to miss!”

Bus locations:

Mon 29 September - Aldi, Middleton

Tues 30 September - The Butts, Rochdale

Weds 1 October - Co-op, Littleborough

Thurs 2 October - The Butts, Rochdale

Fri 3 October - Morrisons, Rochdale

Staff will be on hand each day between 10am and 3pm.