The report before Members provided an update on the introduction of the Local Support Services Framework, a partnership of organizations that would provide specialist advice and support to residents who had suffered major life changing events or who had been affected by welfare reforms which had resulted in a cessation or reduction of payments to the Council.

In addition, the Council had been asked by the Department for Work & Pensions (DWP) to provide advice and support to residents on making claims for Universal Credit and enhancing a resident’s prospects of finding employment.

 It was expected that there would be a soft launch of the framework in early 2015 with Universal Credit support provided from March 2015 onwards.  Members were advised that Brentwood was to be included in the first tranche of Universal Credit.

The amount of Universal Credit support was dependant on the level of funding received.

Cllr Chilvers MOVED and Cllr Mrs Hubbard SECONDED the recommendations within the report and following a full discussion it was RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY that:

1.   Members note the expansion of the group and endorse the continuing development of the Local Support Services Framework.

2.   Members agree to the provision of advice and support with claims for Universal Credit, subject to appropriate funding being received.