Participants will learn how to identify entitlement to benefits and tax credits in this structured introduction to the benefits system, its administration and decision-making processes. Delegates will also consider how to increase the take-up of benefits and discuss where to get support and where to refer clients.

Course contains

• Identifying different benefits and tax credits
• Contributory, non-contributory and means-tested benfits
• The effect of work on entitlement
• How claims for benefits can affect each other
• Passporting effects of benefits
• How and where to make claims
• The importance of disability benefits
• Backdating
• How to get decisions changed
• Good practice

Learning outcomes

After this course, you will be able to:

• Understand how the benefit system works and how different benefits fit together and impact on each other
• Accurately advise people on which benefits they can claim and if they are getting paid the correct amount
• Identify the common problems faced by claimants and some of the ways to help them
• Understand what help is available when claimants start work
• Know when to get specialist support and what useful reference resources and websites are available.

Suitable for

Advisers who need an overview of the benefits system in order to give basic advice and information on benefit issues that may affect their clients; new advisers who are expected to give advice on benefits; and advisers who are experienced in other areas but want structured training on the benefit and tax credit system.

Enquiry line

Please call 0344 515 1155 or email training@shelter.org.uk

In-house training

We can also run this course in-house. Find out more about in-house training