Introduction to welfare benefits

About this course

The welfare benefits system is complicated and confusing, both to claimants and those whose responsibility it is to support them. Claimants are largely expected to know their rights, although it is clear that most do not. Thousands of millions of pounds are under claimed every year leading to severe hardship, including rent arrears and other indebtedness. The cost-of-living crisis has only made matters worse. It is therefore vital that new advisers become aware of what the benefits system has to offer. 

The course covers:

• The basic structure of the benefits system
• The role of contributory and non-contributory benefits
• The role of the means tested benefits system
• The responsibilities of benefit claimants
• How sick and disabled people are supported through social security
• How universal credit is changing means tested help for claimants
• How universal credit operates and a summary of how it is calculated

This training course is intended to help those new to helping claimants with social security queries, and to increase awareness of the key welfare benefits available to new and established claimants. 

Method of delivery and timings

This introductory-level course is delivered online via Zoom over three consecutive mornings. It runs from 10am to 1pm on each day, with a half hour break between 11.15-11.45. 

It is a practical course delivered using a combination of trainer presentation, exercises and group discussion. Participants will need a Wi-Fi connection and a suitable device to access the internet. It is not recommended to join via a mobile phone.