Increase in users to advice service

The Advice Team, operated by Dorset’s disability charity Diverse Abilities, has seen a 20 per cent increase in service requests.

After launching a telephone advice service in early 2019, enquiries are up almost 91 per cent after increasing its hours due to popular demand. Benefit clients increased 12 per cent over the same period of the 2019/20 financial year.

Diverse Abilities Advice Team offers assistance with benefit applications, drafting of appeal submissions and representation at Tribunal hearings, along with the drafting of Lasting Power of Attorney.

Elaine Ewing, advice service manager, commented: “Our advisors are experienced and supportive when helping people in often overwhelming situations. Applying for disability benefits and preparing legal documentation for appeals can be a daunting task, so we strive to do everything we can in order to make the process as seamless as possible.”

The service is continuing to offer a telephone service during the pandemic to ensure that people can still access the vital help they require.

Elaine added: “Despite reduced services from the courts and other official bodies, people must continue to submit their benefit applications or appeals, and we are here every step of the way.”

Visit diverseabilities.org.uk/advice for more details on the team’s services or call 0300 330 5514 between 9am and 1.30pm on weekdays.