Fifers on benefits have been told not to panic over welfare reform changes taking effect.
There are 39,000 people claiming benefits in the kingdom and Fife Council said that the UK Government’s programme of welfare reform, which is the biggest overhaul of the system in more than 60 years, would hit the poorest and most vulnerable claimants hardest.
Depute council leader Councillor David Ross said: “The council has been preparing for these changes for some time now by providing information for Fife residents who might be affected, and briefing our staff so they are able to help people through the changes.
“We have a dedicated phone line and a website with information on all aspects of the reforms. We’ve also been running regular web chats to answer people’s questions on the new under-occupancy rules the so-called ‘bedroom tax’.
“As a council, we think many of these reforms being introduced by the Government, especially the bedroom tax, are wrong and will hit some of the poorest and most vulnerable in our communities.”
Welfare reform changes include new rules on under-occupancy, which mean people in social housing who claim housing benefit and have more bedrooms than the Government thinks they need will have their payments reduced.
The council is advising those affected by the bedroom tax that they may be eligible for a Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP). Forms to apply for the DHP scheme can be downloaded from the council website at fifedirect.org.uk/dhp, or requested by calling 08451 551155.
Today also marks the changeover from council tax rebate to a new council tax reduction scheme. This means applicants will have their council tax charge reduced, in the same way as a discount or exemption.
Those in receipt of council tax rebate do not need to do anything because their bills be automatically reduced.
There are also changes to the crisis loan scheme. This was previously taken care of by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) but will be devolved to local councils in a new welfare fund. From today, crisis loans will become crisis grants, and will no longer need to be paid back.
Community care grants are also available to help people live independently, by providing items such as furniture or appliances. The number for information about crisis loans and community care grants is 0300 555 0265.
Those with concerns about welfare reform can find out more at fifedirect.org.uk, by speaking to their local office, or by calling 0345 1400 031.