How to find an adviser
Most people will be able to get help from a local independent advice centre or CAB that helps with benefits problems. Look in your Yellow Pages, search for your local CAB using the link on 'Links to other websites', or phone Community Legal Advice to ask if there is one near you: 0845 345 4 345 (Minicom: 0845 609 6677). They are open 9am to 6.30pm Mondays to Fridays, and 9am to 12.30pm on Saturdays.
Your local council will also be able to tell you about local advice services, and some local authorities run their own welfare rights services who may be able to advise you. To find details of your local council go to 'Links to other websites' on the right.
Local council offices, community centres, or libraries should also be able to help you to find out about advice services in your area.
Sometimes there are services that you can access through your GP, social worker, hospital, or community centre. There's no harm in asking - so call your GP, and your social worker, hospital, or community centre if you have one, and ask if there is a service for you.
If you have no luck, you may be able to get help from an adviser over the phone. Community Legal Advice (see details above) can give you free advice over the telephone if you live on a low income or benefits.
TaxAid have a helpline for people that cannot afford to pay for advice: 0845 120 3779. They are open 10am-12 midday, Mondays to Thursdays. They can also offer face to face appointments in London, Birmingham and Manchester.
Working families run a helpline for parents who work: 0800 013 0313
You can also e-mail for advice: advice@workingfamilies.org.uk
Gingerbread has a helpline for single parents: 0800 018 5026
They are open every day 9am-5pm, but for detailed enquiries on money issues like this, phone on Monday 10am-12pm and 2pm-4pm, Tuesday 10am-12pm and 2pm-4pm, Wednesday 5pm-8pm, Thursday 2pm-4pm, Friday 10am-1pm.
