After the announcement that EON are to close their offices in Rayleigh, Rochford District Council would like to make those who live in the District who are, or have been, affected aware of the services that are available to them.
The Council’s Revenues and Benefits Team may be able to help with rent and Council Tax via the Housing and Council Tax benefit schemes. These are available not only to pensioners and the unemployed but to anyone on a low income.
The Revenues and Benefits team recommend that those affected contact them immediately if they would like to claim. Benefit entitlement usually only starts from the week after the team receive a claim so don’t delay.
People who are already in receipt of benefit affected by these cuts should also contact the Council’s Revenues and Benefits team immediately to report any changes in their circumstances. This will ensure people continue to receive the correct amount of help.
Advisors are available on the telephone on 01702 318197 or 318198 between 8am and 8pm Monday to Friday and between 9am and 12pm on Saturday morning to discuss what help is available. Alternatively residents can visit the offices in South Street, Rochford between 8:30, and 5:30 Monday to Thursday and 8:30 and 5:00 Friday.
The Rochford District Council website www.rochford.gov.uk also has a range of useful information about the schemes including an on-line calculator which will give an estimate of someone’s likely entitlement along with claim forms to download. This can be found at www.rochford.gov.uk/benefitscalculator .
Additional help with living costs is also available. Job Seekers Allowance can be claimed from the Job Centre plus, and their telephone number is 0800 055 6688.
For further information about Tax Credits, the telephone number 0845 300 3900.
Rochford District Council’s Portfolio Holder for Council Tax Collection, Benefits and Strategic Housing Functions, Councillor Tracy Capon said: “These are challenging times for all residents experiencing redundancies and it’s important we as a Council do everything within our power to assist those who need us the most”.
The Council’s Economic Development Team has also taken action following the announcement. The team will look to work closely with partners in order to provide advice for people seeking work and we are encouraging residents to visit www.rochford.gov.uk to find out updates in the coming days and weeks.
Portfolio Holder for Leisure, Tourism, Heritage, The Arts, Culture and Business Councillor Keith Gordon said: “The loss of any business in the District is always bad news but we want our residents to know that help and support is available. Over the coming weeks and months the Council will endeavour to assist those who need any support services the council has to offer.”
