Free, independent, impartial & confidential information and advice
Citizens Advice Merton and Lambeth is pleased to announce the details of the 2023 Annual General Meeting! Please see them below and reply accordingly should you wish to attend the meeting.
AGM Notice
Citizens Advice Merton and Lambeth 2023 Annual General Meeting
Date and time: Tuesday 31 October 2023, 6pm
Location: Zoom
If you wish to attend, please RSVP Simona Todorova (finance@caml.org.uk) by Friday 27th October.
Citizens Advice Merton and Lambeth (CAML) is launching a new CAML Cost of Living Campaign 2023.
The impact for families and individuals of the Cost of Living Crisis is unlike anything CAML has ever experienced.
During the summer months demand for CAML’s support and complexity of advice issues was significantly higher than the same period last year.
Winter 2023/2024 is expected to be as bad if not worse than 2022 and evidence suggests the Cost of Living Crisis is turning into a debt disaster for the UK.
In August (usually a quieter month) an average of 119 local residents called CAML Advicelines every day.
On-the-day demand at CAML offices (not clients with pre-booked appointments) is at record highs. We’re now experiencing residents queuing outside offices before and during opening hours for our support.
You can read some of our clients’ stories below:
We simply are unable to support this unprecedented level of demand.
Help us to support the tens of thousands of residents from across Merton and Lambeth needing urgent advice support by making a donation to CAML as part of our Cost of Living Campaign.
As Suzanne, CAML Chief Executive explains, “Demand for CAML’s services continues to rise week by week. Summer months demand and complexity of advice issues has been significantly higher than last year. Winter 2023 is expected to be as bad, if not worse than 2022. Your donation will enable us to support families and individuals in need at this incredibly difficult and challenging time.”
We are an independent charity and have been supporting individuals and families in need since 1939. Demand for our services is at record highs. Your donation will make all the difference.
Ho Ho Ho! Okay, we will admit it’s a bit early but that doesn’t mean it is too early to prepare and sign up for the ‘Santa in the City – London’ run to help raise money for Citizens Advice Merton and Lambeth (CAML)!
This 5K will see participants running, jogging and walking their way past various landmarks around the city of London all while dressed up as Father Christmas come December 7th 2023.
The more lighthearted nature of the event and festive spirit will surely be a hit with the whole family, who are more than welcome to come along and cheer you on with a round of ‘Santa-pplause’.
CAML will cover your registration fee for the event and all entries come with a Santa suit included so no need to worry in the wardrobe department!
No prior experience is needed for a 5K like this, and if it helps just imagine that there’s mince pies waiting for you at the end along with the knowledge that you have raised money that will help a fantastic charity continue its invaluable work.
Visit the link below to register and find out more:
https://runforcharity.com/citizens-advice-merton-and-lambeth/santa-in-the-city–london-thursday/register
Sunday July 9th saw a group of supporters, including Lucy, Josh and Sherrie successfully complete the ASICS London 10K in support of CAML, raising the fantastic amount of £1144 between them!
CAML is extremely grateful for their support and fundraising efforts. The sponsorship raised to date is already enabling us to support more individuals and families affected by the Cost of Living crisis.
Thank you to all of you again!
If you or anyone you know is interested in supporting CAML through a sponsored challenge, please see https://www.caml.org.uk/sponsored-challenges/
You can still support Lucy, Josh and Sherrie’s JustGiving pages below:
https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/lucy-mackie7
https://www.justgiving.com/page/joshua-lom-1687871826393
https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/sherrie-goldsmith
If you would like to stay updated, you can follow us on:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CAMertonLambeth
Twitter: https://twitter.com/CAMertonLambeth
and LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/citizens-advice-merton-and-lambeth
On Sunday 18th June, a group of supporters, including Simona, a member of the CAML Team, will be walking and running the Battersea Park 5K for Citizens Advice Merton and Lambeth (CAML)!
Wishing you all the best from all the team at CAML! The sponsorship raised to date is already enabling us to support more individuals and families affected by the Cost of Living crisis.
You can support Simona and CAML via her Just Giving page: https://justgiving.com/page/simona-todorova-caml
If you or anyone you know is interested in supporting CAML through a sponsored challenge, please see https://www.caml.org.uk/sponsored-challenges/
If you would like to stay updated, you can follow us on:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CAMertonLambeth
Twitter: https://twitter.com/CAMertonLambeth
and LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/citizens-advice-merton-and-lambeth/
This Sunday Ronnie Patel is running his first London Marathon for CAML and another charity.
Wishing you all the best Ronnie from all the team at CAML! The sponsorship raised to date is already enabling us to support more individuals and families affected by the Cost of Living crisis.
Suzanne Hudson, CAML CEO: “We can’t thank Ronnie enough for his support. The demand for our services is simply overwhelming. Your donation will make all the difference and enable us to support more people in desperate need.”
You can support Ronnie and CAML via his Just Giving page: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ronnie-patel2
If you would like to stay updated, you can follow us on:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CAMertonLambeth
Twitter: https://twitter.com/CAMertonLambeth
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/citizens-advice-merton-and-lambeth/
and Ronnie on:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/r.patel1411/
On Wednesday 1st March 2023 we will be carrying out an upgrade to our Adviceline telephone systems. This means that we will be unable to answer phone calls all day. You can still contact us online.
If you are a resident of Merton or Lambeth, click here https://www.caml.org.uk/advice-contact/ to submit an online query.
You can also visit us at our offices. Click here to see our locations and opening hours https://www.caml.org.uk/get-in-touch-with-us/.
If you live in another London borough click here https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/about-us/contact-us/contact-us/search-for-your-local-citizens-advice/ to find your local office.
The Adviceline telephone service will resume on Thursday 2nd March at 10am.
Ronnie Patel is running the 2023 London Marathon in aid of CAML and another charity.
As Ronnie explains “I was sitting at home during the December big freeze complaining about my heating bill costs and how the cost of living crisis has affected everyone, when I heard a radio call in with people struggling with so many challenges. Citizens Advice Merton and Lambeth supports hundreds of people every week affected by the cost of living crisis many of whom are often in crisis, facing debt, not able to pay bills and worrying if they can stretch their food for a few more days. I’m running the London Marathon for the first time. Your donation for CAML will enable them to support more clients.”
Suzanne Hudson, CAML CEO: “We can’t thank Ronnie enough for his support. The demand for our services is simply overwhelming. Your donation will make all the difference and enable us to support more people in desperate need.”
You can support Ronnie and CAML via his Just Giving page: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ronnie-patel2
We’re also raising awareness of and following Ronnie’s training for the Marathon via social media! If you would like to stay updated, you can follow us on:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CAMertonLambeth
Twitter: https://twitter.com/CAMertonLambeth
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/citizens-advice-merton-and-lambeth/
and Ronnie on:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/r.patel1411/
We’re delighted to announce CAML has started working in Merton Libraries providing advice and support for a range of Cost of Living issues.
If you live, work or study in Merton. If you’re worried about the Cost of Living or have a query, please pop in and speak with one of our team:
Mondays – Colliers Wood Library from 10am
Thursdays – Wimbledon Library from 10am
Fridays – Pollards Hill Library from 10am
Our support includes:
As Suzanne, CAML CEO, explains “Cost of Living challenges are impacting individuals and households across Merton and demand for our support is at unprecedented highs. Working in partnership with Merton Council and Library teams we’re able to support more Merton residents in need.”
Alternatively you can contact us:
Merton Adviceline: 0808 278 7831 (freephone) (10am-4pm, Monday-Friday)
Online Advice Query Form: https://www.caml.org.uk/advice-contact/
Visit our Mitcham (326 London Road, Mitcham CR4 3ND/ Monday-Friday, 10am-3pm) and
Morden (7 Crown Parade, Crown Lane, Morden SM4 5DA/ Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, 10am-3pm) offices
Thank you to everyone who supported our Cost of Living donations campaign in 2022. With the generous match funding from one of our donors, we raised an amazing £3,731 which is already helping us support more individuals and families.
Unfortunately, more and more individuals in need are contracting us for support in 2023 (the first week of January we experienced record high demand for on-the-day demand at our offices and people calling Merton and Lambeth Advicelines). If you or anyone you know is able to support us, our Cost of Living Campaign is here: https://www.caml.org.uk/caml-cost-of-living-campaign/ (to visit the donation link, please click the button below the image).
As Suzanne, CAML Chief Executive explains, “Demand for CAML’s support continues to rise week by week. All donations we receive will be hugely appreciated and will enable us to reach and support more people across our services and on-line at this incredibly challenging time.”
We are an independent charity and have been supporting individuals and families in need since 1939. Demand for our services is at record highs. Your donation will make all the difference.
I’ve seen offers for ‘Buy Now Pay Later’ when I’m doing online shopping. It seems like a good way to spread the cost of some of the things I need to get for my family but how can I make sure I don’t get into debt?
With everything getting more expensive, this is a really difficult time for a lot of people, so it’s sensible to be thinking about how you can manage. There are lots of things you can do to try and stay in control of your money.
Before you start spending, work out exactly what money you have coming in and going out each month. Be realistic about what you need for essentials like food and travel. Take a look at the budgeting tool on the Citizens Advice website. This can help you set a budget you can stick to.
You’ll also be able to find tips on how to reduce your regular living costs, which might be helpful if you’re struggling to keep within your budget.
While it can be tempting to split payments with schemes like Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL), you’ll need a plan to pay the money back. If you’re using something like that repeatedly, you might be managing for now, but it could also be a sign that it’s unaffordable in the long run. Keep a record of how much you owe in total.
Always make sure you understand what you’re signing up for, how you’ll make the repayments and what will happen if you can’t pay on time. It’s important to check the returns process for both the retailer and credit provider. Paying through BNPL may also affect the cost of postage returns if you’ve ordered online. The riskiest thing about it is that you’re not guaranteed to be protected if something goes wrong. For example, you can’t go to the Financial Ombudsman Service if you have a complaint.
If you find yourself turning to credit cards, your overdraft, or store cards for your spending, keep track of what you owe. You should prioritise paying your rent or mortgage, plus energy bills and Council Tax first, because not paying these has the most serious consequences. On the Citizens Advice website, you can find information on what bills to prioritise and how to manage debts. There’s also information on the support available for paying these and other bills.
If, like many during this crisis, you find you can’t afford to reduce your debts after paying your priority bills and essentials, seek advice as soon as possible. If you need specific support or don’t feel able to manage your situation alone, you can contact CAML on Merton Adviceline on 0808 278 7831, Lambeth Adviceline on 0800 254 0298, our online advice query form https://www.caml.org.uk/advice-contact or the National Citizens Advice debt helpline: 0800 240 4420.
Everyone’s circumstances are different, particularly when it comes to managing personal finances. Our advisers are here to help you find a way forward.
We will be at another one of Merton Council’s Cost of Living events!
📍 Merton Civic Centre
📅 this Saturday 26th November
🕐10.30am-1.30pm
Come and chat to us! All households that visit the event will receive a £10 supermarket voucher. 😊
#merton #local #event #costofliving
Despite the government’s recent freeze on energy bills, everything is pointing towards an incredibly challenging winter for people at the sharp end of the crisis.
As part of CAML’s research and campaigns work we regularly update and meet with local MPs and Councillors. In the past week we’ve been highlighting that the government must do more to support struggling families by confirming benefits will be uprated in April in line with inflation.
At CAML, we’re seeing record high demand from residents from across the London Boroughs of Merton and Lambeth including rising debt and welfare benefits support and referrals to food banks and fuel vouchers. Issues that usually peak in winter started to rise sharply in the middle of summer, for example people unable to top up their prepayment meters. We’re also seeing more people coming to us who are facing or experiencing homelessness.
Whilst welcoming the Prime Minister’s recent freeze on energy bills, which is providing much-needed support for individuals and families, rising costs are outpacing government support. If benefits fail to keep pace with inflation, a family with one child will see a real terms drop in support of £87 a month. This is a cut people simply cannot afford. The new Prime Minister and Chancellor urgently need to ensure people on the lowest incomes can make ends meet.
The attached briefing focuses on the national perspective across the Citizens Advice network.
We have gathered some essential cost of living support information for Merton Residents, which you can find below. If you would like to download this leaflet, please click here.
Citizens Advice Merton and Lambeth is pleased to announce the details of the 2022 Annual General Meeting! Please see them below and reply accordingly should you wish to attend the meeting.
AGM Notice
Citizens Advice Merton and Lambeth 2022 Annual General Meeting
Date and time: Monday 7th November 2022, 1pm
Location: Zoom
If you wish to attend, please RSVP Simona Todorova (finance@caml.org.uk) by Friday 19th November.
The Government Energy Price Guarantee will be in place for two years from 1st October and will cap the price for each unit of energy you use. Please note, it’s not a cap on your total bill value and new prices start from 1 October. For more information about the Energy Price Guarantee visit https://www.gov.uk/ .
We recommend you take up to date meter readings by 30 September to ensure your energy company’s bill accurately reflects the amount of energy you’ve used before the new prices take effect.
If you have a smart meter, your meter should automatically send your energy company the readings (it’s wise to take photo of the readings or a note for your reference).
If you don’t have a smart meter or you know your smart meter isn’t communicating, we recommend you take readings on 30th September and submit. Majority of energy companies are providing a couple of days to submit readings (and then back date to 30th September) but please check with your own company.
Help us to support the tens of thousands of residents from across Merton and Lambeth needing urgent advice support by making a donation to CAML as part of our Cost of Living Campaign.
The Cost of Living Crisis following two years of pandemic means demand for our services and support is at unprecedented highs. Your donation will help us support individuals and families in need.
Moreover, thanks to the generous support of one of our donors, your donation will be match funded (with up to £2,500 of matched funding on offer) throughout our Campaign, which runs from CAML’s Fundraising Week (starting 20 September) to end-October 2022. In other words, CAML will receive double the amount that you donate, at no extra cost to you, and double the impact your donation will have on the vital services we provide to the Merton and Lambeth community if you donate by 31st October 2022.
Find out more and donate: https://www.caml.org.uk/caml-cost-of-living-campaign-2022-during-our-campaign-the-first-2500-of-donations-made-to-citizens-advice-merton-and-lambeth-caml-will-be-doubled/
Join us for a coffee and a slice of cake! This is an opportunity for our clients to get to know us and find out more about our services, while enjoying some lovely cake + coffee/tea.
This event will be held at our Mitcham office (326 London Road, MITCHAM, CR4 3ND) on Wednesday 21st September between 2-4pm. Minimum donation is £2. We look forward to seeing you there!
We are deeply saddened to hear the news of the passing of Her Majesty the Queen. Our thoughts and condolences are with the Royal Family at this very sad time.
If you live in a property in Council Tax bands A to D, you are likely to receive a £150 Council Tax rebate to help with the cost of living.
£150 rebate for Council Tax bands A-D
If you’re eligible for a rebate, you should check your bank account to see if you have received it.
If you’re eligible but haven’t received a rebate, fill the online claim form by 30 September 2022 at: https://revsandbens.merton.gov.uk/scripts/OPENPortal-Live.wsc/ctax/ctaxrebate.p
Who is eligible?
Merton Council will provide a £150 one-off payment to a liable Council Tax payer (or a person who would otherwise be liable where the property is exempt) for every household that occupies a property that meets all the following criteria on 1 April 2022:
– Valued in Council Tax bands A to D. This includes property that is valued in band E but has an alternative valuation band of band D as a result of the disabled band reduction scheme. You can find your council tax band on GOV.UK.
– It is someone’s sole or main residence.
– Council Tax is charged on the property or it is in exemption classes N, S, U or W.
– The person who is liable to pay the Council Tax (or would be were the property not exempt) is not a local authority, a corporate body or other body such as a housing association, the government or governmental body.
Discretionary scheme
There is a discretionary rebate scheme for those who need help with their energy bills but are not eligible – such as vulnerable people and individuals on low incomes that do not pay Council Tax, or that pay Council Tax for properties in Bands E-H.
Who is eligible?
– Households in receipt of Council Tax Support and in bands E to H – £150 (approximately 3,500)
– Households with new Council Tax Support claims for the period 1 April 2022 to 30 June 2022 who have not previously received the rebate, bands A to H – £150 (estimate to be 350)
– Households where pensioners are liable in bands E to H – based on number of applicants (it is not known how many there are in the borough).
Merton has decided to support pensioners living in bands E to H and as the council tax records do not identify pensioners, they are writing to all residents in bands E to H to invite pensioners to apply for the rebate. If you are of pension age and receive a state retirement pension and want to apply for the rebate, you can complete the online application via the following link: https://www.merton.gov.uk/council-tax-benefits-and-housing/council-tax/energy-rebate/overview
The council has approximately £400,000 to grant. As they do not know how many pensioners are eligible it is not possible to state how much will be awarded to qualifying residents. Merton will calculate the amount of grant once all applications have been received and validated. Applications will close on 9th September at 5.00pm.
Don’t have internet access or not sure how to complete the Council’s online form? CAML has public computers you can use and Information team members who can support you.
Mitcham office (326 London Road, CR4 3ND) Mon-Fri 10am-4pm
If you live in a property in Council Tax bands A to D, you are likely to receive a £150 Council Tax rebate to help with the cost of living.
Eligibility for Households in Council Tax bands A–D
Every household that occupies a property which meets all of the following criteria on 1 April 2022:
– It is valued in Council tax bands A – D. This includes property that is valued in band E but has an alternative valuation band of band D, as a result of the disabled band reduction scheme
– It is someone’s sole or main residence
– It is a chargeable dwelling, or in one of the following exemption classes: Class N – a dwelling occupied entirely by students, Class S – a dwelling occupied wholly by persons under the age of 18, Class U – a dwelling occupied wholly by persons who are severely mentally impaired, Class W – an annex flat or similar self-contained property occupied by a dependent relative of a person living in the main part of the building; and
– The person who is liable to pay Council Tax (or would be were the property not exempt) is not a local authority, corporate body or other body such as a housing association, the government or government body
Discretionary fund
Details of the discretionary fund and who is eligible to apply will be published on Lambeth Council’s website once available.
Direct Debit Payers
Payments of £150 have been made where possible to eligible residents who pay via direct debit and their April 2022 instalments have been confirmed as paid. Please check the bank account you use to pay your Council Tax.
All other direct debit payers will be receiving a letter in June from Lambeth Council inviting them to apply for the rebate.
If you are in receipt of Council Tax Support (CTS) and are eligible you will receive a letter inviting you to collect your £150 payment from the Post Office during June. You will need to take the letter alongside a listed proof of ID in order to collect your payment.
*If you do not pay by direct debit and are up to date with your payments and are eligible you will receive a letter inviting you to collect your £150 payment from the Post Office during June. You will need to take the letter alongside a listed proof of ID in order to collect your payment.
*If you do not pay by direct debit and you are not up to date with your payments and are eligible, you be receiving a letter from Lambeth Council inviting you to apply for your £150 payment.
For more information visit: https://beta.lambeth.gov.uk/council-tax/support-energy-prices-council-tax-rebate
Don’t have internet access or not sure how to complete the Council’s online form? CAML has public computers you can use and Information team members who can support you. Our Lambeth Hub at 91 Kennington Lane, SE11 4HQ is now open on Monday-Wednesday, 10am-4pm.
The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has today announced that he will be investing £2.3m in vital advice services across the capital to help Londoners cope with the spiralling cost of living. CAML is grateful to be a part of this project and to be able to support many more local residents that need our help.
Chair of the London Citizens Advice Steering Group (and CEO of Merton and Lambeth Citizens Advice) Suzanne Hudson said: “At a time when demand in London Citizens Advice charities is soaring, we are delighted that the Mayor of London is supporting this important partnership to help Londoners cope with the cost- of-living crisis. In difficult times, accessing information and advice can prevent problems from becoming crises. Our services are here to provide support for people when they need it and this funding will enable us to help more Londoners. “
Read more: https://www.london.gov.uk/press-releases/mayoral/mayor-announces-23m-for-advice-services
Over eight million households to get new cost-of-living payment from 14 July
More than eight million households across the whole of the UK will get a cash payment from July to ease cost of living pressures, as the Work and Pensions Secretary Thérèse Coffey set out detailed plans on 15 June 2022.
The first instalment of the £650 for qualifying low income households in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland will land in bank accounts from 14 July 2022, continuing to the end of the month.
The guidance on GOV.UK for getting an extra payment to help with the cost of living if you’re entitled to certain benefits or tax credits has been updated to clarify qualifying dates, payment dates, how the payments will be made and how the payments to people on low income benefits and tax credits will be split.
Are you interested in volunteering with CAML? We are holding two Volunteer Recruitment events:
Merton: 5th July, 10am-12pm
Lambeth: 20th July, 12-2pm
If you would like to attend, please drop us a line at volunteering@caml.org.uk and we will send you further details.
#volunteer #recruitment #vacancies #merton #lambeth #volunteering
CAML is delighted to announce we’re now offering Information support, assessments and pre-booked advice appointments Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays (10am to 4pm) at 91 Kennington Lane, London, SE11 4HQ.
Suzanne Hudson, CAML’s Chief Executive, explains “In addition to supporting residents at outreach venues across Lambeth, it’s great to have a new base for our Lambeth services. When setting up we received lovely welcomes from local residents and community groups. If the first few days are anything to go by, we’re going to be very busy.”
If you live locally and have an advice query, you can pop in to see us Mondays to Wednesdays.
Alternatively, you can:
Ring Lambeth Adviceline: 0800 254 0298
Fill out our Advice Contact Form and we will get back to you
If you have an initial query and are not sure what next steps to take, email informationsupport@caml.org.uk
Citizens Advice Merton and Lambeth (CAML) was delighted to welcome all the team and extended charity family to Volunteers Week event. Following two years of remote events/activities, this was the first time all the CAML team had the opportunity to come together face-to-face and what a lovely afternoon it was.
On behalf of the Board of Trustees, Caroline Taylor thanked CAML volunteers for all their support for the charity and our clients. She also took the opportunity to thank all the team for responding to the numerous challenges presented by COVID-19 in recent years. She highlighted how quickly, flexibly and professionally the team transferred to home working at the start of the pandemic and continued to support clients throughout the two year period resuming face-to-face support as and when Government guidance permitted to ensure clients received the best support possible.
Our Volunteer and Training Officer, Janine Benjamin said:
‘Some of us were seeing each other again for the first time in 2yrs, others were meeting in person for the first time ever. It was just great to be able to bring everyone together under one roof and celebrate our wonderful team!’
Citizens Advice Merton and Lambeth (CAML) is delighted to announce a new drop-in advice support clinic for Ukrainian nationals living in Lambeth in the Sponsorship Scheme.
Ukrainian Support will take place on:
Wednesdays (starting 8th June)
10am to 1pm (last client seen at 12.30pm)
At: Citizens Advice Merton and Lambeth, 91 Kennington Lane, Lambeth, London SE11 4HQ
CAML can assist you with advice queries including welfare benefits, debt, and housing. The Ukrainian support Clinics are for Ukrainians living in Lambeth in the Sponsorship scheme.
At the Clinic, you can:
The Clinic is a drop in service. Please bring all relevant documents with you. This will help us support you more quickly. Please note the Clinic works on a first come, first served basis and the service may be limited depending on adviser capacity
If you’re unable to attend a Clinic, please email lambethlivingwell@caml.org.uk and we’ll be in touch to arrange a telephone, video conference or face-to-face appointment at our Kennington office.
Map
Train: Kennington and Elephant and Castle stations (Northern and Bakerloo lines); Vauxhall (Victoria line, National Rail)
Bus: Routes 3, 59, 133,159,196, 333, 415
If you’re unable to attend the Clinic, you can still receive help to resolve the issue:
Email: lambethlivingwell@caml.org.uk
Phone: Lambeth Adviceline 0800 2540298 (Mon – Fri, 10am to 4pm)
Please note, Adviceline can be very busy particularly in the mornings and you may not be able to get through on the first try. Afternoons and days later in the week tend to be quieter.
Citizens Advice Merton and Lambeth (CAML) is looking for energetic, talented and committed individuals to join its Board of Trustees. At the moment the Board is made up of seven trustees, and we are looking to appoint up to another three people who can bring additional specialist skills/experiences, particularly in communications, charity fundraising and legal.
We are looking for people with strategic vision and independent judgement that can support the charity and its executive team to deliver for our clients. We want team players, people with personal commitment and empathy, as well as an openness and a willingness to learn.
Becoming a trustee offers great opportunities in an impactful organisation, helping making a very real and direct difference to so many people’s lives. You will join a diverse Board dealing with a wide range of issues, and will undoubtedly learn a lot about different issues, your community, the charity and yourself. In return, we seek a commitment of around eight to ten hours a month.
How to apply
After reading the supporting information, interested applicants are asked to email the following to recruitment@caml.org.uk:
-Current CV
-Covering letter telling us why you would like to be a trustee with CAML
-Signed copy of the Declaration
–Diversity monitoring form
We are recruiting on a rolling basis and are considering applications as and when we receive them. We recommend you to apply as soon as you can as although the this recruitment remains live until 30 September 2022 we expect to appoint to the three roles in the coming months.
All applications are considered by a trustee panel, with shortlisted candidates then invited to an interview, likely to take place within a month of receiving their application.
Any questions?
If you have any queries, please contact Suzanne Hudson, our CEO, in the first instance on Suzanne.hudson@caml.org.uk.
The Money and Mental Health Policy Institute today published The State We’re In https://www.moneyandmentalhealth.org/publications/the-state-were-in/
The report offers a state-of-the-nation snapshot of the financial and mental wellbeing of people across the UK during the pandemic.
It reveals that during the Covid crisis, people with mental health problems faced a much higher risk of financial hardship compared to the wider population.
Our findings show that during the pandemic people with mental health problems were:
Key recommendations:
Alongside London Citizens Advice charities, Citizens Advice Merton and Lambeth (CAML) has written to candidates standing in local elections on 5th May asking prospective Councillors to consider how (if elected) they may be able to work with and support the work of advice charities/organisations in their boroughs.
The upcoming local elections provide an opportunity for London boroughs to reflect on the challenges that all boroughs face, and the needs of London residents. As London recovers from the Covid-19 pandemic, Londoners are increasingly impacted by cost of living challenges. As well as creating new and severe issues that drastically affected the quality of Londoners’ lives, the pandemic exacerbated the problems London’s communities have faced for years, namely:
· widening social inequalities both between and within London boroughs
· more people live in poverty in London (28%) compared to the rest of the UK (22%)
· the growing impact of social isolation and digital exclusion
According to the London Poverty Profile, the costs of living in London are 15%-58% higher than the rest of the UK, housing issues are a major driver of poverty in London, and the in-work poverty rate across London is rising. These trends are likely to accelerate as the cost of living crisis continues to impact Londoners. Citizens Advice across London boroughs have seen a 16% increase in client numbers in the first three months of 2022 compared to final three months of 2021. Social welfare advice has a vital role to play in economic and social fairness in London.
We are therefore calling on candidates this election to ensure that their boroughs:
1. Maximise their engagement with, and support for, charities and community groups
2. Work to strengthen the capacity of community advice services to address social and financial exclusion in their borough
3. Share best practice so that approaches to commissioning and working with London’s advice agencies are more consistent across
With the war in Ukraine, CAML is sharing this summary of information available for people who need to know about rights for Ukrainian citizens.
Update on Government guidance for Ukrainians and their families
Currently, two different schemes have been announced by the Home Office for Ukrainian refugees fleeing current conflict.
These are:
Ukraine Family Visa
Open to Ukrainians who have a family connection to a UK. To be eligible you will need to:
· be applying to join or accompany your UK-based family member; and
· be Ukrainian or the immediate family member of a Ukrainian national who is applying to the scheme; and
· have been residing in Ukraine on or immediately before 1 January 2022 (including those who have now left Ukraine)
Further information on eligibility and information on how to apply can be found at:
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-a-ukraine-family-scheme-visa
Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme (Homes for Ukraine)
Full information for UK based organisations/households looking to sponsor Ukrainians is now available at:
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/homes-for-ukraine-scheme-frequently-asked-questions
Applications can be made at:
https://www.gov.uk/register-interest-homes-ukraine
Information for Ukrainians wishing to take part in the Sponsorship Scheme can be found at:
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-a-visa-under-the-ukraine-sponsorship-scheme
Currently, under stage one, Ukrainians will need to be down a named sponsor.
Ukrainians already in the UK
Ukrainians on work and study routes already in the UK can now:
The Home Secretary’s statement on 1 March announced that these applications will be free of charge. The guidance can be found here https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/ukrainian-nationals-on-work-and-study-routes-concessions-to-the-immigration-rules
Contact us
CAML provides an Immigration service for Merton and Lambeth residents.
Email: Immigration@caml.org.uk
Merton Adviceline: 0808 278 7831
Lambeth Adviceline: 0800 254 0298
From the start of 2022 Citizens Advice Merton and Lambeth (CAML) and Lambeth Council joined together to provide local community support on priority areas of advice need.
With winter temperatures and rising energy prices our support includes:
Lambeth Household Support Fund
Energy provider comparisons/efficiency
Warm Home Discount
Welfare Benefits
Budgeting
Housing
If you require specialist advice support, our Living Well Advisers will be able to refer you to CAML services or signpost to other organisations.
Suzanne Hudson, CAML Chief Executive, explains “The Lambeth Living Well project provides priority advice support in local communities. With rising energy prices our current focus includes Winter Warm and energy support. Dependent on residents need, our focus will adapt throughout the year as will venues/communities we’re based at”.
We can provide telephone, online and video conferencing support or pop in and chat with us:
Tuesdays – West Norwood Community Shop https://norwoodforum.org/news/24-apr-20/west-norwood-community-shop
Wednesdays – Beth Centre [for clients of Beth Centre only please contact the centre directly]
Thursdays – Lambeth Living Well Bus (various locations https://lambethtogether.net/lambeths-health-and-wellbeing-bus/
Fridays – Lambeth Living Well Bus (various locations https://lambethtogether.net/lambeths-health-and-wellbeing-bus/
Need to contact us?
Ring: Lambeth Adviceline 0800 254 0298 (Freephone, Monday to Friday, 10am to 4pm). Demand for Adviceline support is surging so you may prefer to email Living Well service direct at
Email: lambethlivingwell@caml.org.uk
Demand for both Merton and Lambeth Advicelines is surging to new record highs.
Our team is answering and supporting as many calls as they can.
Unfortunately you may experience a long wait. Afternoons (2pm-4pm) and later in the week tend to be a little quieter.
If you live in Merton, our Mitcham Office (326 London Road, CR4 3ND) is open 5 days a week for information support and pre-booked appointments.
If you live in Lambeth, we are with the Lambeth Living and Well-Being Bus on Thursdays and Fridays https://lambethtogether.net/lambeths-health-and-wellbeing-bus/ and also at West Norwood Community Shop on Tuesdays https://norwoodforum.org/news/24-apr-20/west-norwood-community-shop. Just pop in to speak with member of the CAML team.
Citizens Advice Merton and Lambeth (CAML) is looking for energetic, talented and committed individuals to join its Board of Trustees. At the moment the Board is made up of seven trustees, and we are looking to appoint up to another three people who can bring additional specialist skills/experiences, particularly in communications, charity fundraising and legal. Please click here: https://www.caml.org.uk/trustees/ to read the supporting information and find out how to apply.
Citizens Advice Merton and Lambeth is pleased to announce the details of the 2021 Annual General Meeting! Please see the below details and reply accordingly should you wish to attend the meeting.
AGM Notice
Citizens Advice Merton and Lambeth 2021 Annual General Meeting
Date and time: Wednesday 24th November 2020, 6pm
Location: Zoom
If you wish to attend, please RSVP Simona Todorova (simona.todorova@caml.org.uk) by Friday 19th November.
Thank you to everyone for joining and supporting CAML’s first Fundraising Week!
We exceeded the £1,000 Fundraising Week fundraising target which is brilliant and we welcomed new friends and supporters to the CAML family.
Citizens Advice Merton and Lambeth (CAML) is one of the largest and busiest advice charities in London. The demand for our services and support has always been high. The pandemic, unfortunately, has resulted in thousands more seeking our support (for some services, demand from individuals and families in need has risen 300%). Although COVID restrictions are relaxing, the demand for advice support is still rising and for many clients the impact will last for years.
Few realise Citizens Advice organisations are charities. Our first Fundraising Week had the dual aim of raising awareness of our work and hopefully donations to help us manage the continuing surge in demand for our support. In the words of one of our clients “The support from my adviser and a colleague was great. I was very stressed and they also helped calm my anxiety around the issues.”
If you are interested in receiving information about CAML, our services and how to support us please do not hesitate to contact Simona at simona.todorova@caml.org.uk.
On behalf of the charity and our clients, thank you again.
We are excited to announce CAML’s first-ever fundraising week and hope to see all of you there!
Fundraising Week 2021 will take place from Monday 13th to Sunday 19th September. During the week there will be a range of events and activities – including the CAML Quiz World Cup and Open Day – to raise vital funds and awareness about the charity’s work.
The main aim of CAML’s Fundraising Week 2021 is to raise vital funds to let us continue providing a helping hand for families and individuals in need. As a result of the pandemic, demand for our services has increased significantly. The number of clients contacting us has risen substantially, and so has the complexity of their advice needs. The multitude of problems that people face require continuous action and support from our Advisers in order to be resolved. This is why we need your help in order to ensure that we continue providing the crucial and life-changing advice support that people need.
If you would like to contribute to CAML’s first Fundraising Week, you can do so through the following link: https://cafdonate.cafonline.org/17699. We are grateful for all of the donations we receive as they are vital to the work we do for people in need. Scroll down for the range of events we will be holding during the Week.
What is on?
Wednesday 15th September – CAML Quiz World Cup
WHAT: Form a team and pit your wits against the brightest and best quiz stars from amongst our communities! Hosted by Brain Men – the Quiz Professionals, the quiz will feature a little bit of everything. It’s still not too late to brush up your pop culture references, geography skills and Olympics trivia!
WHEN: An online event, the quiz will kick off at 6pm on Wednesday 15th September!
WHY: Glory! Fun! And to support CAML!
HOW TO GET INVOLVED: We are asking people to make donations to CAML to take part in the event. The suggested donation is £20 per person, which can be made using the following link: https://cafdonate.cafonline.org/17699.
If you would like to enter a team for your organisation, please contact Janine by Wednesday 8th September with the following information:
– Your team name and the name of captain
– Which organisation/department you are from
– Your team members and their email addresses (maximum of 6 people per team, including the Captain)
Please be advised there is limit to the number of teams that can participate, so register your interest ASAP!
Janine will confirm your team’s registration once all your donations have been verified and then forward Zoom details closer to the Quiz.
Any and all questions are welcome. Please direct these to janine.benjamin@caml.org.uk.
We look forward to seeing you on Wednesday 15 September.
May the best team win!!!
Saturday 18th September – CAML Open Day
WHAT: Join us at our Mitcham office (326 London Road, Mitcham CR4 3ND) for a day of fun and learning more about our work! The event will be open to the public, with a range of activities, where you can:
– Learn more about CAML and our services –
– Visit stalls, including books, toys and the Kids’ tombola –
– Eat some cake, Caribbean food and ice cream –
– Play Advice Games with our Team –
– Help us reach our fundraising goal –
WHEN: The CAML Open Day will be held from 10am to 2pm on Saturday 18th September!
WHY: To connect with the local community and raise awareness of our services!
HOW TO GET INVOLVED: Visit us at out Mitcham office at 326 London Road, CR4 3ND on Saturday 18th September! We look forward to seeing many of you there!
Any and all questions are welcome. Please direct these to simona.todorova@caml.org.uk.
If you would like to contribute to CAML’s first Fundraising Week, you can do so through the following link: https://cafdonate.cafonline.org/17699. We are grateful for all of the donations we receive as they are vital to the work we do for people in need. Thank you for your support and we hope to see many of you at CAML’s Fundraising Week events.
Citizens Advice Merton and Lambeth has now resumed face-to-face Information support and pre-booked advice appointments, 10.00am to 3.00pm, from its Mitcham office (326 London Road, Mitcham, CR4 3ND).
These services are provided following Covid-19 social distancing guidelines and best practice.
All our services continue via telephone, video conference and online.
If you have an advice query, please contact us:
If you prefer video conferencing or need face-to-face support please let the team member know when you contact us. Where there is an emergency we will do our best to make arrangements for a face-to-face appointment.
The government has announced that the ban on bailiff-enforced evictions has been extended by 6 weeks to 31st May 2021. If you are struggling with rent payments or are at risk of eviction, our advisers can help.
It is a good idea to get help early on to prevent the situation from getting worse. Call our Adviceline for free advice, information, and support on Lambeth 0344 488 9625 and Merton 0808 278 7831.
For more information on how our advisers can help you, visit our Get Advice pages
To help, we have put together some tips on what you can do if you are struggling with rent payments – it might be that you save money elsewhere, increase your income or get extra support with paying your rent.
An important first step is to open a conversation with your landlord – it is always helpful to be clear and transparent about your situation so you can begin working towards a potential resolution. It is worth remembering eviction is often a last resort for many landlords.
If you have lost your job or suffered reduced income due to the COVID-19 then be sure to explain this to your landlord. They may be more accommodating as a result and might be willing to accept reduced payments or work out a manageable payment plan.
If you are currently on low income, you may be eligible for extra money to help you cover your rent and other living expenses. Universal Credit or Housing Benefit are common examples of this. If you need help applying for benefits visit our Get Advice page
You may also be eligible to claim Discretionary Housing Payments if you are claiming benefits but don’t receive enough to cover your rent. For more information on how to apply see: Merton – https://www.merton.gov.uk/council-tax-benefits-and-housing/benefits/housing-benefit-and-council-tax-support/discretionary-housing-payments Lambeth – https://beta.lambeth.gov.uk/benefits-and-financial-support/get-extra-support/discretionary-housing-payment-dhp
It may be that the reason you are struggling with rent payments is that you have outstanding debts or are finding it difficult to manage your finances.
If this is the case, please contact us as soon as you can and we’ll schedule an appointment with one of our advisers. They might be able to assist you with getting debts written off, structuring a plan to repay your debts or help with budgeting your finances.
Saving money on your energy bills can free up finances to help towards paying your rent. Switching energy supplier is likely to save you money on your gas and electricity bills.
If you need help with saving money on your energy costs or finding out if you could be eligible for discounts please contact us.
Stay safe
All the team at Citizens Advice Merton and Lambeth
Census Support Centres
In London most centres are open to provide phone support and face-to-face appointments. They can help with general census queries, and help people to fill in their online census or paper form. In Lambeth, we currently have two centres operating for physical visit:
The Link, Brixton
The Link, Unit B14. 49 Effra Road, SW2 1BZ
Open 5 days a week for physical appointments. Booking an appointment in advance is required. The centre will also be assisting people over the telephone. Opening hours are currently set at 10am-6pm (Monday-Friday).
Al-Nagashi Mosque & Centre (EMCA)
283-291 Wandsworth Road, SW8 2ND
Open 5 days a week for physical appointments. Walk-ins are accepted at this centre. The centre will also be assisting people over the telephone. Opening hours are currently set at 10am-6pm (Monday-Friday).
Need help completing the census?
From this week every household in Lambeth will receive a letter letting people know how they can take part in the census. This is a once-a-decade survey of England and Wales which helps to support policy making, plan public services and inform where billions of pounds are spent, for example, on roads, schools and hospitals.
Each household must fill in the census by law.
If you need help completing your census questionnaire, there is plenty of support available:
1. The census website – https://census.gov.uk/
2. Census Telephone Support Centre – 0800 141 2021
3. Census Language Helpline – 0800 587 2021
4. Lambeth Census Virtual Workshop
Three organisations – Citizens Advice Merton and Lambeth, Southwark Law Centre and Indoamerican Migrant Refugee Organisation (IRMO) – with the support of Lambeth Council, are working together to support Lambeth residents in the final months of the EU Settlement Scheme Programme.
If you’re a Lambeth resident looking for support in completing a settlement application, please contact Citizens Advice Merton and Lambeth via Lambeth Adviceline (0344 488 9625), email informationsupport@caml.org.uk or online query form at www.caml.org.uk
If your circumstances are complex and require legal support, Southwark Law Centre may be able to assist. If you ring or email Citizens Advice Merton and Lambeth (contacts above) in the first instance explaining your need if applicable we can make a direct referral on your behalf).
For Spanish and Portuguese speakers, IRMO provides support in completing settlement applications. Phone: +44 7422 667327 or Email: info@irmo.org.uk
Cllr Donatus Anyanwu, Cabinet Members for Voluntary Sector and Leisure, said: “We are clear, we want our European citizen residents to stay even though we have left the EU because we value their huge contribution to this borough. We are focussing on ensuring as many people from our diverse communities are able to access the system established by the Government.
“By partnering with well-established local charities with a strong track record of supporting our communities we can help make sure people can secure their rights to stay. We know that for many people applying for settled status will be a straight forward task, but that for some there may be challenges. That’s why we are working to ensure equality of access for all.”
The census is coming on Sunday 21 March 2021.
By taking part, you can help to inform decisions on services that shape your community, such as healthcare, education and transport.
It’s important that you fill in your census questionnaire online. It’s easy to take part, but if you need a little extra help there are a wide range of support services.
There’s language support and accessible census guidance. You can also get help from census staff in the contact centre over phone, in a web chat or on social media.
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) will send you a letter in the post with an access code and instructions. You can fill your census questionnaire in online as soon as you get yours.
If your household circumstances change on Census Day, you can let the ONS know.
Remember, if you, or anyone you know, needs help, there’s plenty available.
For more information, visit www.census.gov.uk
We’re providing dedicated advice and support for Pollards Hill area residents who need to self-isolate.
If you’re a Pollards Hill resident, receive a positive test, and worried about financial implications of self isolation, please contact us.
Our Advisers are supporting residents with a range of issues including applying for self-isolation payments of up to £500, welfare benefits, employment advice, foodbank and grant referrals and access to local and national government support schemes.
Email merton.advice@caml.org.uk with your name, postcode and telephone details, or ring 0808 278 7831 (Freephone), 10am to 4pm, Monday to Friday
Full guidance for Pollards Hill residents from the Council can be found here https://www.merton.gov.uk/coronavirus/test/local-testing
Many support organisations – including Citizens Advice Merton and Lambeth – are closed over the holiday period. Citizens Advice Merton and Lambeth services are closed from 4pm, Wednesday 23 December and re-open 10am, Monday 4 January 2021.
The following provides links to support we’re aware of in Merton and Lambeth:
Merton
| Merton Covid Community Response Hub | 24th Dec-10am-4pm 25th Dec – Closed 28th Dec – Closed 29th Dec – 10am – 4pm 30th Dec – 10am – 4pm 31st Dec – 10am – 4pm 1st Jan-Closed | Are you isolated, at risk from COVID-19 and need help with any of the following? • Support with shopping and basic supplies • Access to prescription and medication • Telephone befriending • Advice and practical help to stay active • Support to stay independent at home If you, or someone you know, needs help please call 020 8685 2272 (see holiday period opening times). |
| Wimbledon Food Bank | Wimbledon Elim Hours- 17th Dec- 12pm- 1pm 21st Dec- 11am-1pm 22nd Dec- 12pm- 1pm 24th Dec- 11am- 1pm Mitcham Commonside Hours- 18th Dec- 11am-12pm 19th Dec- 12:30pm – 1:30pm 23rd Dec- 11am -12pm Morden Hours 23rd Dec- 5pm-6pm All Locations 25th Dec- 2nd Jan -Closed 4th Jan – Business as usual | The best place to attend on Christmas week is Wimbledon Elim as it is the warehouse. Monday, Tuesday and Thursday times 12 pm – 1 pm Address- Elim Pentecostal Church Wimbledon, 76 Kingston Road, South Wimbledon, SW19 1LA |
| African Educational Cultural Health Organisation (AECHO) 0208 648 5405 | 23rd -29th Dec 10am – 4pm 30th Dec onwards 10am – 4pm | Provide online and telephone support for those who wish to talk to someone over the holidays. |
| Dons Local Action Group | 23rd Dec Collecting and delivering 24th- 27th Dec Closed 28th-30th Dec Collecting and delivering 1st Closed | For support over holidays, please email: Craig.wellstead@afcwimbledonfoundation.org.uk |
| South West London Law Centre | 23rd Dec 10 am – 2pm 24th Dec 10 am – 2pm 29th Dec 10 am – 2pm 30th Dec 10 am – 2pm 31st Dec 10 am – 2pm | During those times will be running a skeleton service only so please ring on our main no 020 8767 2777 or email enquiries@swllc.org or visit our website www.swllc.org |
| Polish Family Association | The advice, information guidance including the European Settlement scheme will be open from: 21st -24th Dec 9am-3pm 28th- 31st Dec 9am -3pm | Please email info@polishfamily.org.uk |
Lambeth
| Lambeth Larder | For other food support and advice | www.lambethlarder.org |
| Lambeth and Southwark’s Emergency Support Schemes | www.lambeth.gov.uk/apply-for-emergency-support |
Photo by Cristian Newman on Unsplash
‘Celebrating Safely’ sessions to be held next Monday.
The sessions will provide information on the ‘Christmas Bubble’ guidance and practical tips on reducing the risk of COVID-19 during the holiday season. To join one of the free webinars on Monday 14 December 2020, 12 noon to 1pm and 6pm to 7pm just drop-in using the links below – no booking required.
This week (16 – 22 November) is National Consumer Week.
National Consumer Week is a yearly campaign which aims to raise people’s awareness of specific consumer issues.
More people are shopping online than ever before—a shift which has been heightened during the coronavirus pandemic. Along with the increase in online shopping, there’s been an increase in the number of problems consumers are having with it. It’s vital consumers know their rights when shopping online and how to be a #SafeShopper.
If you’re looking for advice on what your consumer rights are when buying something online and what you can do if you have a problem, you can find out more on Citizens Advice pages. Citizens Advice can help you be a #SafeShopper online bit.ly/3eodNMF
CA Merton and Lambeth is pleased to announce the details of the 2020 Annual General Meeting. Please see the below details and reply accordingly should you wish to attend the meeting.
AGM Notice
Citizens Advice Merton and Lambeth
2020 Annual General Meeting
1pm, Friday 27 November 2020,
Via Zoom
If you wish to attend, please RSVP Vivian Agyeman (vivian.agyeman@caml.org.uk)
by Wednesday 25 November.
The focus of the festival is to celebrate and congratulate London’s carers with a fun packed event of comedy, music, art and dance whilst also delivering thought-provoking stories and dementia-friendly virtual walks. All of which are being delivered in partnership with London carers. The programme includes a range of activities including Zumba with Zoe, a live performance by St Michael & All Angels Steel Orchestra, Vocal Eclipse (an award winning group of experienced singers who always leave their audiences wanting more), a range of comedy acts and two thought provoking films ‘I still feel guilty’, an honest look at the feelings of guilt felt by a carer followed by ‘What do you do with a diagnosis of dementia?’ a video diary of “Grandma” who has recently been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. You can see the full programme of events on our website. Book your FREE ticket now! You will receive joining details one week prior to the event.
Please contribute to the Citizens Advice Merton and Lambeth Strategy Survey
Are we doing enough? What can we do better? Tell us.
As we develop our plans for the next 5 years, we want to first listen to the unique views of our community. This includes those who use (or have used) our services, those who might consider using our services in the future, and those who are our partners, funders and commissioners.
Just as important are the views of our volunteers, staff and supporters. We would encourage you to contribute to this Strategy Survey.
Our new Strategy will provide an important framework for everything we do over the next 5 years – and beyond. That’s why we want to engage with as many people and organisations as possible – to learn from your experiences of our work, our organisation, our people, and our values.
Please tell us what you think our focus and priorities should be for the years ahead by completing the Citizens Advice Merton and Lambeth Strategy Survey. The deadline is 27 September 2020.
Volunteering is a positive experience for most volunteers, and as an experience, at its best, is time well spent, according to research for NCVO.
People mainly volunteer locally, in their own neighbourhoods, and the range of activities they get involved in are most commonly relating to organising events, administration, raising money and taking part in sponsored events, and getting others involved.
We have an urgent requirement for a volunteer to support our Head of Advice Services and wider Advice team to more fully participate in agreed Advice services research and awareness raising work.
The volunteer will also support the Chief Executive and Head of Advice Services with specific projects as requested.
For more information go to our Volunteer Page
Hope to see you soon”
A huge thank you to our amazing staff and volunteers who are working and volunteering incredibly hard from home.
We answered over 800 calls to Merton and Lambeth Advicelines
We responded to just under 200 online queries and emails
We supported 135 clients with telephone/online advice appointments
In the words of one of our clients “Please thank everyone who helped me this week. I was losing hope when I rang your number and I’m not now”.
Get in touch:
Merton Adviceline 0344 243 8430
Lambeth Adviceline 0344 488 9625
Email: appointments@caml.org.uk
We have now finished three research reports, all looking at the impact of mental health for our local clients in relation to welfare benefits.
Our first report asked the question: Does having a mental health condition disproportionately affect a person’s eligibility for welfare benefits?
The majority of CAML staff and volunteers who participated in the research reported that clients affected by mental health are disproportionately disadvantaged when it comes to claiming benefits. Our research suggests this problem is most evident in relation to ESA, which was mentioned specifically by 66% of CAML respondents. The problem was also identified by respondents in relation to other benefits including: PIP, Universal Credit, Job Seekers Allowance, Housing Benefit, Attendance Allowance and Child Tax Credits.
Mental Health and Benefits Research Summary Report
Mental Health and Benefits – Research Report
Our second report builds on the first and focuses on how employment and support allowance is experienced by those affected by mental health. It includes those with a mental health diagnosis, and the people who support and care for them.
Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) – As Experienced By Those Affected By Mental Health
Our third report focuses on how those affected by mental health, and those who support them, experience Personal Independence Payments (PIP). The report highlights experiences of individuals with a mental health diagnosis, individuals concerned about their mental wellbeing, family members & carers, CA Merton and Lambeth volunteers and advisers/support professionals.
Personal Independence Payments (PIP) – As Experienced By Those Affected By Mental Health
CAML Chief Executive, Suzanne Hudson, has written to our local MPs asking them to urge the Chancellor of the Exchequer to confirm that benefits will be uprated in April in line with inflation in the Autumn Statement.
Millions of households are living through the biggest cost-of-living crisis in decades. They urgently need reassurance from the government that things will not get worse for them this winter. If benefits are frozen for April 2024-March 2025, this will result in significant real-terms cuts in Universal Credit (UC) awards.
Across the Citizens Advice network, over half of all households coming to us for debt advice already have more money going out on essentials than coming in. They are particularly vulnerable if benefits aren’t keeping pace with prices. The average amount of income gap each month is £30.50. This will almost triple to more than £80 per month if benefits are frozen. Many people in a negative budget are in work – yet are unable to pay for basic essentials on their current income.
The example below shows that in Mitcham and Morden residents are being affected with Personal Independence Payments the top cost of living advice issue residents are seeking CAML’s support for.
CAML Support for Mitcham and Morden Residents – Top 5 Cost of Living Issues
