Each year in May we hold a two-day Welfare Assessors Conference to update our Assessors on any Government policy changes that may affect our beneficiaries. This year the Assessors gathered together at the Ardencote Manor Hotel, Warwickshire from the 4-5th May.
It is a great opportunity for them to get together, exchange experiences and share advice. This year as well as hearing about changes to various benefits and grants there were also speakers and information stands on selected topics. For example, Paddy Millard MBE provided useful information on ‘TaxHelp for Older People’ and Steve Thomson from Age UK who gave the group an insight on how Age UK can be of assistance in various areas relating to housing and home improvements.
We currently have 57 Welfare Assessors and there was a record attendance of 46 visitors at the conference this year. They are often the first port of call for our beneficiaries when they need support and guidance on benefits and services, or just someone to talk to. They are our ‘front line’ who, by their visits, are able to ensure the continued welfare needs of our beneficiaries are sufficiently met. Every single report is studied and acted upon where necessary, and without their input we would be unaware of the real needs of our beneficiaries.
All our Assessors are given a thorough training, so they are aware of the benefits and government grants available and can ensure that the people they visit are in possession of the ‘basics’, that is cookers, washing machines, televisions, telephones, fridges and beds. Assessors are also able to recommend Caravan supply beneficiaries with mobility items and telephone response systems where necessary.
If you are interested in hearing more about how you can become one of our Welfare Assessors then we would be delighted to hear from you. In particular, we are looking for Assessors in the following areas; Liverpool, Birmingham, Shropshire, Norfolk and North Wales. Please contact Renatha Fourie on renatha@caravan-charity.org.uk or call 01252 875925.
Photographs from the conference can be found on the Welfare Assessors Annual Conference page.
